why chhotanagpur plateau region has maximum concentration of iron ores
The reasons for maximum concentration of Iron ore in chota nagpur plateau are: i) Low cost of iron ore: Iron mines are located in the nearby areas. It helps to reduce the transportation cost of iron ore to the industries.(ii) High grade raw materials in proximity: Other bulky raw materials like, coking coal, limestone are also available in proximity.(iii) Availability of cheap labour: From the adjoining areas of Bihar, Jharkhand and Odisha, cheap labour is available in abundance.(iv) Dense transport network: This region is well connected with roadways and railways that help in the swift movement of raw materials and finished goods to the industry and market areas, respectively.(v) Port facilities: Kolkata is a well developed port that is near to this area.
This question is part of UPSC exam. View all Class 10 courses
why chhotanagpur plateau region has maximum concentration of iron ores
The Chhotanagpur Plateau region has a maximum concentration of iron ores due to various geological and environmental factors:
Geological Factors:
1. Presence of Iron-rich Sedimentary Rocks: The Chhotanagpur Plateau is predominantly composed of iron-rich sedimentary rocks, such as shale, sandstone, and limestone. These rocks have undergone intense sedimentation and weathering processes over millions of years, leading to the deposition and concentration of iron ores in the region.
2. Volcanic Activities: The region has experienced significant volcanic activities in the past, resulting in the formation of basaltic lava flows and associated volcanic sediments. These volcanic activities have contributed to the enrichment of iron ores in the Chhotanagpur Plateau.
3. Faulting and Folding: The area has been subjected to tectonic forces, including faulting and folding, which have led to the creation of favorable conditions for the accumulation and concentration of iron ores. Faults and folds can create traps and reservoirs for the deposition and preservation of iron-rich minerals.
Environmental Factors:
1. Weathering and Erosion: The Chhotanagpur Plateau has undergone extensive weathering and erosion processes over time. These processes have exposed the iron-rich rocks to the surface, making them more accessible for mining and extraction.
2. Hydrological Processes: The region is characterized by numerous rivers and streams that have played a significant role in the transportation and deposition of iron ores. The movement of water has led to the concentration of iron minerals in specific areas, making them economically viable for mining operations.
3. Climate: The plateau region experiences a tropical monsoon climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The alternating wet and dry periods contribute to the leaching and concentration of iron ores. During the wet season, water percolates through the rocks, dissolving and mobilizing iron minerals. In the dry season, evaporation takes place, leaving behind concentrated iron deposits.
Conclusion:
The concentration of iron ores in the Chhotanagpur Plateau region is a result of a combination of geological and environmental factors. The presence of iron-rich sedimentary rocks, volcanic activities, faulting and folding, along with weathering, erosion, hydrological processes, and the tropical monsoon climate, have all contributed to the maximum concentration of iron ores in this area. This concentration has made the region a significant source of iron ore mining and extraction activities.
To make sure you are not studying endlessly, EduRev has designed Class 10 study material, with Structured Courses, Videos, & Test Series. Plus get personalized analysis, doubt solving and improvement plans to achieve a great score in Class 10.