Which of the following ranges of the Himalayas are composed of unconso...
Shiwaliks (a) The outermost range of the Himalayas is called Shiwaliks. (b) They extend over a width of 10-50 kms and have an altitude varying between 900 and 1100 metres. (c) These ranges are composed of unconsolidated sediments brought down by rivers from the main Himalayan ranges located further North.
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Which of the following ranges of the Himalayas are composed of unconso...
The correct answer is option 'C', which is "The Shivaliks." The Shivalik range is composed of unconsolidated sediments brought down by rivers. Here is a detailed explanation:
The Himalayas, located in South Asia, is one of the world's most prominent mountain ranges. It stretches across several countries, including India, Nepal, Bhutan, and Pakistan. The range is divided into several sub-ranges or ranges, each with its own distinct characteristics.
The Pir Panjal range, Karakoram range, and Ladakh range are not composed of unconsolidated sediments brought down by rivers. Let's discuss each of these ranges briefly:
1. Pir Panjal Range: Located in the northern part of the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir, the Pir Panjal range is a part of the Inner Himalayas. It is primarily composed of hard rocks like granite and gneiss. This range is known for its high peaks, deep valleys, and snow-capped mountains.
2. Karakoram Range: Situated in the northernmost region of the Indian subcontinent, the Karakoram range is known for its high peaks, including the second-highest peak in the world, K2. The Karakoram range is made up of hard rocks like granite, gneiss, and schist. It is characterized by steep slopes and rugged terrain.
3. Ladakh Range: The Ladakh range is located in the Indian union territory of Ladakh. It is an extension of the Karakoram range and shares similar geological features. The Ladakh range consists of hard rocks like granite, gneiss, and schist.
Now, let's focus on the Shivalik range, which is composed of unconsolidated sediments brought down by rivers.
The Shivalik range is the southernmost range of the Himalayas and acts as a transition zone between the Himalayas and the Indo-Gangetic Plains. It stretches across several Indian states, including Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, and Punjab.
The Shivalik range is primarily composed of unconsolidated sediments, such as sand, gravel, silt, and clay, which have been brought down by rivers like the Ganga, Yamuna, and their tributaries. These sediments are deposited in the form of alluvial fans, terraces, and river valleys.
The unconsolidated nature of the sediments in the Shivalik range makes it prone to erosion and landslides. The range is characterized by gentle slopes, rounded hills, and numerous streams and rivers. The fertile soil derived from these sediments supports agriculture in the region.
In conclusion, the Shivalik range of the Himalayas is composed of unconsolidated sediments brought down by rivers. This distinguishes it from other ranges like the Pir Panjal, Karakoram, and Ladakh ranges, which are primarily composed of hard rocks.