Name the oldest landmass of the Indian subcontinent.a)The Himalayasb)N...
The peninsular plateau was one of the parts of the gondwana landmass which drifted away.Hence, it is the oldest landmass of the indian subcontinent.
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Name the oldest landmass of the Indian subcontinent.a)The Himalayasb)N...
Introduction
The Indian subcontinent is characterized by diverse geological formations, but among them, the Peninsular Plateau is recognized as the oldest landmass.
Geological Significance
- The Peninsular Plateau is primarily composed of ancient crystalline rocks, which are part of the Indian Shield.
- These rocks date back to the Precambrian era, making them over 2.5 billion years old, thus establishing the region's antiquity.
Formation and Structure
- The Peninsular Plateau was formed due to the tectonic activities and geological processes that shaped the Indian landmass.
- It consists of two main divisions: the Deccan Plateau and the Central Highlands, which are characterized by rugged terrain and hills.
Comparison with Other Landmasses
- The Himalayas: Though they are significant, they are relatively younger, formed around 50 million years ago due to the collision between the Indian plate and the Eurasian plate.
- Northern Plains: These are alluvial plains formed by sedimentation from rivers and are much younger than the Peninsular Plateau.
- Island Groups: The islands, such as the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, are also younger formations resulting from volcanic activity and tectonic movements.
Conclusion
The Peninsular Plateau stands as a testament to the geological history of India, making it the oldest landmass of the Indian subcontinent, characterized by its ancient rock formations and significant geological evolution over billions of years.