FAQs on Fundamentals of Physical Geography: Landforms & their Evolution- 2 Video Lecture - NCERT Video Summary: Class 6 to Class 12 (English) - UPSC
1. What are landforms and how do they evolve? |
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Ans. Landforms are natural features found on the Earth's surface, including mountains, valleys, plains, and plateaus. They are created and shaped through various geological processes such as erosion, deposition, and tectonic activity. Landforms can evolve over long periods of time due to factors like weathering, erosion by wind and water, and movements of the Earth's crust.
2. What are the main types of landforms? |
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Ans. The main types of landforms include mountains, hills, plateaus, plains, valleys, canyons, deserts, and coastal landforms. Mountains are high and steep landforms formed by tectonic forces, while plateaus are flat elevated areas. Plains are large, flat areas with low relief, and valleys are elongated low-lying areas between mountains or hills. Canyons are deep, narrow valleys usually formed by rivers, and coastal landforms are found along coastlines, including beaches, cliffs, and estuaries.
3. How does erosion contribute to the evolution of landforms? |
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Ans. Erosion is the process of wearing away the Earth's surface through the action of wind, water, or ice. It plays a significant role in the evolution of landforms by shaping and modifying them over time. For example, rivers erode valleys and canyons by carrying and transporting sediments downstream. Wind erosion can create sand dunes in deserts, while coastal erosion leads to the formation of cliffs and beaches. Over millions of years, erosion can significantly change the appearance and structure of landforms.
4. What are the factors that influence the evolution of landforms? |
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Ans. Several factors influence the evolution of landforms. Firstly, tectonic activity, including the movement of tectonic plates, can uplift mountains and create rift valleys. Climate and weathering processes also play a role, as different climates lead to varied rates of erosion and deposition. The type of rock and its resistance to erosion are important factors as well. Human activities, such as deforestation or construction, can also impact landform evolution by altering natural processes.
5. How does the study of landforms contribute to our understanding of Earth's history? |
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Ans. The study of landforms provides valuable insights into the Earth's history and the processes that have shaped its surface over time. By examining the characteristics and distribution of landforms, geologists can infer past geological events and changes in climate. For example, the presence of fossilized marine life in mountain ranges suggests that these areas were once underwater. Additionally, the study of landforms helps scientists understand the dynamic nature of the Earth's surface and how it continues to evolve.