Classification of Plateaus

Plateau refers to the region where the level of land surface is higher than the surrounding areas. Plateaus lying on the earth surface may be classified in two ways:

1. Classification on the basis of height

According to their heights plateaus are of two kinds:

A. High plateau: Plateaus that have greater height are known as high plateau. The highest plateau of the world is Pamir (height 4873 meter), which is called the roof of the world. But in respect of largeness of area, Tibet is the greatest and highest plateau (height 3655 meter) and

B. Low plateau: Plateaus that have height between 300 and 400 meter are low plateaus. The Chotanagpur plateau is such a plateau.

2. Classification on the basis of formation

According to the differences in the formation of plateaus they may be classified into three categories, such as,

A. Plateaus encircled by Mountains: At the time of formation of Fold Mountain some part of it were depressed and a plateau was formed. Such a plateau is known to be a plateau encircled by mountain. Tibet is such a plateau.

B. Dissected plateau: A plateau dissected by river valley due to erosion is known as dissected plateau. The Chotanagpur plateau in India is such a plateau.

C. Lava made plateau: Lava plateaus are formed as a result of eruptions. These eruptions are fluid and gases.