What is the Difference Between Mountain and Plateau?

The main difference between a mountain and a plateau lies in their structures and elevations. Here are the key differences between the two:

• Structure: A mountain is a natural elevation of the Earth's surface with a pointed structure, rising abruptly from the surrounding level. In contrast, a plateau is an elevated flat land, also known as a flat-topped table land, standing above the surrounding area.
• Elevation: Mountains are generally taller and steeper than plateaus. The Himalayas, Alps, and Aravallis are some examples of mountain ranges. Plateaus, on the other hand, are relatively flat terrains raised significantly above the ground. Examples of plateaus include the Deccan plateau, Tibet plateau, and African plateau.
• Climate: The climate on mountains gets colder as one goes up, with the base of a mountain being warmer than its summit. Due to the harsh climate, fewer people reside in the mountains. Plateaus, however, have a comparatively drier and moderate climate, making it easier for cities to settle and irrigation to be implemented.
• Vegetation: Mountains often have rich forests reserves, while plateaus are known for their scenic beauty and are often visited by tourists.

In summary, mountains are elevated, pointed structures with steep slopes, while plateaus are elevated flat lands with a relatively moderate climate.

Comparative Table: Mountain vs Plateau

Here is a table comparing the differences between mountains and plateaus:

In summary, mountains are tall, natural elevations with steep slopes, while plateaus are flat, elevated areas with a table-like shape. Mountains are generally higher in elevation than plateaus, but some plateaus can be higher than certain mountains. Mountains are not suitable for farming and have harsh climates, making them sparsely populated, whereas plateaus can have rich mineral reserves and be scenic spots with waterfalls.