Question

What is a more precise geographical name for a table land?
A. A hill
B. A headland
C. A plateau
D. A mountain

Answer 1

Hint: These are formed by either manipulation of lava, like burgeoning magma (a state of lava) or water or glacial movement. They are also referred to as highlands. Agriculture on these landforms are characterised by terrace farming, crop rotation and unique methods of irrigation.

Complete answer: Option A. It is akin to a mound and has a distinct tip. It is smaller in comparison to a mountain. Hence, this cannot be the right option. Smaller variants are called knolls or hillocks. The rounded tops occur due to downhill creep.
Option B. This is a coastal land structure, usually with a cliff face. It is also called a cape. It is formed by erosion, when bands of hard and soft rock are hit by the water. They are found on the same coasts as bays. This is an incorrect option.
Option C. It is levelled high ground which experiences a temperate climate. It is often surrounded by deep hills. The Deccan plateau in the Indian peninsula is the nearest example. This is the right answer.
Option D. They are mostly a result of tectonic movement, but sometimes even volcanic action contributes to their formation. The world’s highest peak is Mount Everest in Nepal. It is in the same category as a hill, except larger in dimensions. Therefore, this is also not an option to be considered for the answer.

Hence, Option C is the correct answer.

Note: The word originated from an old French term called ‘plat’, which means level. Awareness of this etymology helps us ascertain the solution here. They are usually surrounded by hills or mountains and hence are found in places above the sea level.