Major Landforms of the Earth – Class 6 Geography Chapter Notes

Understanding the surface features of our Earth is essential for students of Class 6 Geography. This chapter, "Major Landforms of the Earth", introduces learners to the basic types of landforms such as mountains, plateaus, and plains — how they form and their significance to human life and environment.

Class 6 Geography – Chapter: Major Domains of the Earth
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🌍 What Are Landforms?

Landforms are natural features found on the Earth's surface. These include mountains, valleys, plateaus, plains, hills, deserts, and more. They are formed through internal forces (like volcanic activity and earthquakes) and external forces (like wind, water, and ice).

Geographers classify the Earth’s surface into various landforms based on elevation, shape, and formation process. Let's explore the three main types:

🏔️ 1. Mountains

Mountains are natural elevations of the earth's surface that rise more prominently than surrounding areas. They can be steep or gently sloping and are often found in ranges or groups.

Types of Mountains:

  • Fold Mountains: Formed when two tectonic plates collide and fold. Examples: Himalayas, Alps, Andes.
  • Block Mountains: Formed by faults in the Earth's crust. One block is pushed up, others down. Example: Vosges (France), Sierra Nevada (USA).
  • Volcanic Mountains: Formed due to volcanic activity. Examples: Mt. Kilimanjaro, Mt. Fujiyama.

Importance of Mountains:

  • Source of rivers and freshwater
  • Support biodiversity (flora and fauna)
  • Provide resources (minerals, forests)
  • Famous for tourism and adventure sports

🗻 2. Plateaus

Plateaus are flat-topped highlands that rise above surrounding lands. They are also called tablelands due to their appearance.

Examples of Plateaus:

  • Deccan Plateau (India)
  • Tibetan Plateau (World’s highest)
  • Columbia Plateau (USA)

Importance of Plateaus:

  • Rich in minerals (coal, iron, manganese)
  • Fertile for agriculture in some parts
  • Home to tribal communities

🏞️ 3. Plains

Plains are vast stretches of flat or gently rolling lands, often formed by river deposits. They are typically very fertile and ideal for agriculture.

Famous Plains:

  • Indo-Gangetic Plains (India)
  • Mississippi Plains (USA)
  • Great Plains (North America)

Importance of Plains:

  • Highly populated due to ease of living
  • Excellent for agriculture and transport
  • Centers for trade, cities, and industries

🔄 How Are Landforms Formed?

Landforms are shaped by two main forces:

  • Internal Forces (Endogenic): Volcanoes, earthquakes, and plate movements create new landforms.
  • External Forces (Exogenic): Wind, water, glaciers, and temperature change wear away or deposit materials.

📝 Key Terms You Should Know

  • Landform: A natural feature on Earth’s surface.
  • Plateau: A flat, elevated area of land.
  • Plain: A flat and low-lying area.
  • Mountain: A high landform with steep sides.
  • Volcano: An opening in the Earth’s crust that ejects lava and gases.

🧠 Exam Tricks & Quick Facts

  • Fold mountains are the youngest and tallest – e.g., Himalayas.
  • Tibetan Plateau is the highest plateau in the world.
  • Plains are densely populated because of their fertility and accessibility.
  • Mountains are sources of perennial rivers.

🔗 Related Chapters

📚 Conclusion

The Earth’s surface is not flat. It is made up of varied landforms like mountains, plateaus, and plains — each playing a crucial role in shaping our climate, ecosystem, and human life. Understanding these landforms not only helps in geography but also builds awareness of nature's dynamic processes.

Keep revising with these easy notes. Don’t forget to solve NCERT questions and diagrams for better understanding!