What are landforms?
A landform is a natural feature on the surface of the Earth. Landforms are shaped over very long periods by forces such as movements inside the Earth, running water, wind and weathering. Each landform has a different height, shape and slope, and people use them in different ways.
Key idea
Height above sea level and steepness of slope are the two main features used to tell landforms apart.
Main types of landforms
- Mountain — land rising more than about 600 m above sea level, with steep slopes and a narrow peak, e.g. Mount Kinabalu.
- Hill — lower than a mountain, with a rounded top and gentler slopes.
- Plateau — a raised area of flat land with steep sides, sometimes called a tableland.
- Plain — a large area of low, flat or gently sloping land, good for farming and settlement.
- Valley — a long, low area between hills or mountains, often with a river flowing along it.
Example
In Peninsular Malaysia, the Titiwangsa Range is the main mountain range. It runs roughly north to south and acts like a "backbone", separating the western and eastern parts of the peninsula.
Why landforms matter
Landforms affect how people live. Flat plains and river valleys have deep, fertile soil, so most towns, farms and roads are found there. Highlands and plateaus are cooler, so they are used for growing tea and vegetables and for hill resorts. Steep mountains are harder to build on but are important for forests, water catchment and tourism.
Remember
- Mountains are the highest landform; plains are low and flat.
- A plateau is high land that is flat on top.
- Flat lowlands attract the most people because they are easy to build and farm on.