lowland

Lowland is a geographic area with relatively low elevation compared with surrounding terrain. It is typically flat or gently rolling and often lies at elevations of a few tens to a few hundred meters above sea level, though definitions vary by region. Lowlands may be coastal plains, river valleys, basins, or deltas. They contrast with highland or upland regions, which are higher in elevation and often more rugged.

Formation and geology: Lowlands form by sedimentation in basins, fluvial processes in valleys, and tectonic subsidence; glaciers can create or modify lowlands through moraines and outwash plains; coastal lowlands can develop through sea-level rise and sediment deposition. Soils tend to be fertile when fed by rivers, creating floodplains with fine-grained alluvial soils.

Ecology and resources: Lowlands host rich wetlands, grasslands, and diverse ecosystems; many support intensive agriculture due to fertile soils and steady water supply. Some lowland areas are peatlands or mangroves with specialized habitats. Flood regimes shape vegetation and land use.

Hydrology and hazards: Seasonal or permanent inundation is common in lowlands, requiring drainage infrastructure; low-lying coastal zones face risks from storm surge and sea-level rise. Urban and agricultural development in lowlands can increase flood risk.

Examples: The North European Plain, the Mississippi River Valley, the Nile Delta, the Amazon Basin, and the Yangtze Delta are well-known lowland regions; many countries have extensive lowland plains that support agriculture and settlements.