The Making of Deccan Plateau: “A Geological Saga of Volcanoes and Tectonic Forces”

Written By Avinash Sharan

25th April 2023

Story of Deccan Plateau: “From Molten Lava to Mighty Plateau”

In the story of the Deccan Plateau, you will read about the geological history of the Plateau, which is located in the southern part of India. The article focuses on the formation of the plateau, which is believed to have been caused by massive volcanic eruptions that occurred around 65 million years ago.

You will learn about the various geological processes that have shaped the Deccan Plateau over millions of years. Including erosion, weathering, and tectonic movements. The article also discusses the physical features of the plateau, such as hills, valleys, plateaus, and high altitude regions, which have resulted from these geological processes.

Additionally, the article highlights the importance of the Deccan Plateau in India’s geological history. Its contribution to the evolution of various species of flora and fauna. You will also read about the role of the plateau in shaping the geographical and ecological diversity of the Indian subcontinent.

Overall, the story of the Deccan Plateau is a fascinating one that covers a vast period of time. It also involves various geological events and processes that have contributed to the formation of one of the oldest and most significant plateaus in the world.

What You Are Going To Read About The Formation Of Deccan Plateau?

In the Formation of Deccan Plateau, you will read about the geological events and processes that led to the formation of the Deccan Plateau. The article will discuss the massive volcanic eruptions that occurred around 65 million years ago, which are believed to have caused the formation of the plateau.

You will learn about the fissure eruptions that resulted in the accumulation of massive amounts of molten lava and volcanic ash, covering the entire region and leading to the formation of a thick layer of basalt, which is the dominant rock type found in the plateau.

The article will also discuss the various geological processes that have shaped the Deccan Plateau over millions of years. You will read about the physical features of the plateau, including hills, valleys, plateaus, and high altitude regions.

Furthermore, the article will highlight the significance of the Deccan Plateau in India’s geological history and its contribution to the evolution of various species of flora and fauna. You will also read about the role of the plateau in shaping the geographical and ecological diversity of the Indian subcontinent.

Overall, the Formation of Deccan Plateau is a fascinating topic. It delves into the geological events and processes that have shaped the physical and ecological characteristics of the plateau. Thus making it one of the most significant geological features in India and the world.

PHYSICAL FEATURES OF INDIA – CLASS IX.

The Formation Of Deccan Plateau

Deccan Plateau is located in the southern part of India.

The vast, elevated landmass covers an area of approximately 500,000 square kilometers.

It has a rich geological history spanning millions of years, as it is one of the oldest plateaus in the world.

Molten lava was transformed into a mighty plateau over a period of time, creating a fascinating story of formation associated with Deccan.

A massive volcanic eruption that occurred around 65 million years ago formed the Plateau.

The eruption spewed out a vast amount of lava that covered the entire region, but the molten lava gradually solidified.

Forming a thick layer of basalt, which is the dominant rock type found in the plateau.

Various geological processes, such as erosion, weathering, and tectonic movements, sculpted the landscape and created the diverse physical features

that we see today over millions of years.

The Deccan Plateau is home to many unique landforms such as hills, valleys, plateaus, and high altitude regions.

The formation of the Deccan Plateau played a significant role in shaping the geographical and ecological diversity of the Indian subcontinent.

It has also contributed to the evolution of various species of flora and fauna, making it a crucial region for biodiversity.

Today, the Deccan Plateau remains a vital part of India’s geological history.

Also a popular tourist destination for its scenic beauty and cultural heritage.

Geography Source-Based Questions from Physical Features Of India – Class IX

Was The Deccan Plateau Formed Due To Fissure Eruption?

Yes, the Deccan Plateau is the result of fissure eruptions.

A type of volcanic eruption that occurs when magma erupts through a crack or fissure in the Earth’s crust.

Massive fissure eruptions that occurred around 65 million years ago formed the Deccan Traps.

A large igneous province that covers most of the Deccan Plateau.

During the eruption, multiple fissures erupted massive amounts of magma, covering the entire region with lava flows and volcanic ash.

The molten lava gradually solidified, forming a thick layer of basalt, which is the dominant rock type found in the plateau.

The Deccan Traps eruptions are considered to be one of the largest volcanic events in Earth’s history.

It is estimated to have lasted for millions of years.

The volcanic activity of the Deccan Plateau is believed to have played a significant role in the extinction of the dinosaurs.

Moreover, it also led to massive climate changes and environmental disruptions.

In summary, the Deccan Plateau was indeed formed due to fissure eruptions.

These were responsible for the accumulation of lava flows that solidified over time, leading to the formation of the vast plateau we see today.

Difference Between Fissure And Volcanic Eruption

Fissure eruption and volcanic eruption are two different types of geological events.

It involves the release of magma or lava from the Earth’s crust. Here are the main differences between the two:

Cause:

Fissure eruptions are caused by the movement of tectonic plates.

This movement further can create cracks or fissures in the Earth’s crust, allowing magma to escape.

Volcanic eruptions, on the other hand, occur when there is a buildup of pressure in a magma chamber beneath the Earth’s surface.

Explosiveness:

Fissure eruptions are generally non-explosive and release lava flows.

On the other hand, volcanic eruptions can be highly explosive and release ash, rock fragments, and gas.

Location:

Fissure eruptions usually occur along long linear cracks or fissures in the Earth’s crust, while volcanic eruptions occur at or near a volcano.

Duration:

These eruptions can last for months or even years, while volcanic eruptions can be much shorter, lasting for only a few days or weeks.

Volcano Formation:

Fissure eruptions can lead to the formation of large plateaus or volcanic fields.

Whereas, volcanic eruptions can lead to the formation of cone-shaped mountains or stratovolcanoes.

In summary, fissure eruptions and volcanic eruptions are two different types of geological events that are caused by

Firstly, different factors,

Secondly, have different levels of explosiveness,

Thirdly, occur in different locations,

Fourthly, have different durations, and

Finally, lead to the formation of different types of geological features

Which Is More Dangerous – Fissure Or The Volcanic Eruption

Both fissure eruptions and volcanic eruptions can be dangerous and potentially catastrophic, but they have different characteristics that make them more

or less dangerous in different situations.

Fissure eruptions are typically non-explosive and produce relatively slow-moving lava flows.

While they can cause significant damage to property and infrastructure, they generally pose less of a threat to human life compared to explosive volcanic

eruptions.

In contrast, volcanic eruptions can be highly explosive.

It can release large amounts of ash, rock fragments, and gas, which can pose a significant risk to human life.

Moreover, it can cause widespread damage to property and infrastructure.

Volcanic eruptions can also trigger other hazards, such as lahars (mudflows) and pyroclastic flows (avalanches of hot ash, rock, and gas),

which can be extremely dangerous and deadly.

The level of danger posed by a fissure or volcanic eruption also depends on various factors.

Such as the size and intensity of the eruption, the proximity of populated areas, and the preparedness and response of local authorities and emergency

services.

In summary, both fissure and volcanic eruptions can be dangerous, but

volcanic eruptions are generally considered more dangerous due to their explosive nature and the potential for a range of hazards to occur, including ash

fall, lahars, pyroclastic flows, and volcanic gases.

Is Deccan Plateau Rich In Minerals?

Yes, the Deccan Plateau is rich in minerals.

The Deccan Plateau, located in southern India, is a vast region that spans several states, including Maharashtra, Karnataka, Telangana, and Andhra

Pradesh.

It is known for its rich mineral deposits, which contribute significantly to the economy of the region and the country.

Some of the important minerals found in the Deccan Plateau include:

Coal:

The Deccan Plateau has significant coal reserves, which are primarily located in the states of Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh.

Iron Ore:

The Deccan Plateau is home to large deposits of iron ore, which are found mainly in the states of Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh.

Manganese:

The Deccan Plateau is also rich in manganese deposits, which are primarily located in the state of Maharashtra.

Bauxite:

Bauxite, which is the primary source of aluminum, is found in abundance in the Deccan Plateau.

The deposits are primarily located in the states of Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh.

Gold:

The Deccan Plateau has significant gold reserves, which are found mainly in the state of Karnataka.

Copper:

Copper deposits are also found in the Deccan Plateau, primarily in the state of Maharashtra.

Limestone:

The Deccan Plateau is rich in limestone, which is an essential raw material for the cement industry.

The deposits are primarily located in the states of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.

In conclusion, the Deccan Plateau is rich in minerals such as coal, iron ore, manganese, bauxite, gold, copper, and limestone, among others.

The mineral resources of the region are vital to the Indian economy, and their sustainable exploitation is essential for the economic development of the

region.

Which type of rocks form the Deccan Plateau?

The igneous rocks, which were formed by volcanic activity, primarily compose the Deccan Plateau.

Deccan Traps is the name given to the igneous rocks that form the Deccan Plateau.

An area of around 500,000 square kilometers in western and central India is covered by extensive volcanic rock formations.

Intense volcanic activity during the late Cretaceous period, around 60 million years ago, resulted in the formation of Deccan Traps.

The layered basaltic rocks that make up the Deccan Plateau were formed as the lava flows from these volcanic eruptions solidified.

Furthermore, one of the largest volcanic provinces in the world is the Deccan Traps, and they are a significant geological feature of the Indian

subcontinent.

How are the Black, Red and the Laterite soils formed in the deccan plateau region?

The Deccan Plateau region which has three major types of soils – black, red, and laterite.

Formation of these soils are due to the unique geological and climatic conditions prevailing in the region.

Black Soil:

Black soil, also known as regur soil, is a type of soil that is rich in clay and organic matter.

It forms due to the weathering of basaltic rocks, which are abundant in the Deccan Plateau.

The hot and dry climate of the region promotes the breakdown of the basaltic rocks, leading to the formation of black soil.

It is highly fertile and is suitable for growing crops like cotton, sugarcane, and soybean.

Red Soil:

Red soil is a type of soil that is formed due to the weathering of crystalline rocks, such as granite and gneiss.

The red color of the soil is due to the presence of iron oxide.

The hot and humid climate of the Deccan Plateau region promotes the weathering of the crystalline rocks, leading to the formation of red soil.

Red soil is not as fertile as black soil but is suitable for growing crops like millets, groundnuts, and pulses.

Laterite Soil:

Laterite soil is a type of soil that is formed due to the intense leaching of soil nutrients by the heavy monsoon rains.

The leaching leads to the accumulation of iron and aluminum oxides in the soil, giving it a reddish-brown color.

Laterite soil is not very fertile and is suitable for growing only a limited range of crops like cashew, coconut, and some root vegetables.

In summary, black soil is formed due to the weathering of basaltic rocks.

Red soil is formed due to the weathering of crystalline rocks, and

Laterite soil is formed due to intense leaching of soil nutrients by heavy monsoon rains

Which type of crops grow in The Deccan?

The Deccan Plateau region is known for its diverse agricultural production, and a wide range of crops are grown in the region due to its fertile soil and

favorable climate.

Some of the major crops grown in the Deccan Plateau region include:

Cotton:

Cotton is one of the most important cash crops grown in the Deccan Plateau.

Black soil in the region is particularly suitable for cotton cultivation, and Maharashtra, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh are the major cotton producing

states in the Deccan Plateau.

Sugarcane:

Sugarcane is another important cash crop grown in the Deccan Plateau region, particularly in Maharashtra and Karnataka.

The black soil and moderate climate of the region are conducive to the growth of sugarcane.

Rice:

Rice is a staple food crop grown in the Deccan Plateau, particularly in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.

The region’s moderate climate and abundant rainfall are favorable for rice cultivation.

Millets:

Millets are small-grained, drought-resistant crops that are well-suited to the dry climate of the Deccan Plateau.

Examples – Millets such as sorghum, pearl millet, and finger millet are grown extensively in the region.

Groundnuts:

Groundnuts, also known as peanuts, are a popular oilseed crop grown in the Deccan Plateau.

Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh are the major groundnut producing states in the region.

Soybean:

Soybean is another oilseed crop that is grown extensively in the Deccan.

The black soil and moderate climate of the region are conducive to soybean cultivation.

Spices:

The Deccan is also known for its production of various spices, including turmeric, chili, coriander, and cumin.

In conclusion, the Deccan Plateau region is a significant agricultural region with a diverse range of crops grown, including cotton, sugarcane, rice, millets,

groundnuts, soybean, and spices.

The fertile soil and favorable climate of the region have enabled the production of a wide range of crops and contributed significantly to the agricultural

economy of India.

What Makes This Plateau Unique?

The Deccan Plateau is a unique region of India with distinct geological, cultural, and ecological characteristics that set it apart from other regions of the
country.
Here are some of the factors that make the Deccan Plateau unique:

Geological Formation:

The Deccan Plateau is one of the oldest land masses on earth and is composed primarily of igneous rocks, known as the Deccan Traps.

It was formed by volcanic activity during the Cretaceous period, around 60 million years ago.

This unique geological formation has given the Deccan Plateau a diverse landscape with steep escarpments, rolling hills, and fertile valleys.

Cultural Diversity:

The Deccan Plateau is home to a diverse range of cultures and communities, each with their unique traditions and practices.

This region has been inhabited by various indigenous communities, including the Dravidians, who have a rich cultural history and are known for their art,

music, and literature.

Agricultural Production:

The Plateau is a significant agricultural region with a diverse range of crops grown, including cotton, sugarcane, rice, millets, groundnuts, soybean, and

spices.

Moreover, The fertile soil and favorable climate of the region have enabled the production of a wide range of crops and contributed significantly to the

agricultural economy of India.

Wildlife and Biodiversity:

The Deccan is home to a wide range of plant and animal species, including several endemic species.

This region has several protected areas, including national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, which provide habitat for threatened and endangered species

such as tigers, leopards, sloth bears, and elephants.

Historical Significance:

A significant role has been played by the Deccan Plateau in Indian history, particularly during the reign of the Vijayanagara Empire.

Several historic sites and monuments, including Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are found in the region.

The capital of the Vijayanagar Empire was Hampi, which is renowned for its exquisite architecture and sculptures.

Is there any possibility of volcanic eruption in The Deccan?

The Deccan Plateau is a volcanic region that was formed by a massive outpouring of lava during the Cretaceous period, around 60 million years ago.

However, the volcanoes in the Deccan are currently dormant, and there is no immediate threat of volcanic activity or eruption.

According to geological studies, the Deccan Traps, which are a series of layered lava flows that make up the Deccan Plateau, have been dormant for

millions of years.

There have been no recorded volcanic eruptions in the region for several thousand years, and the volcanoes in the Plateau are not considered active.

However, it is worth noting that the geological activity in the region is still ongoing, and there is a possibility of seismic and volcanic activity in the future.

The Indian subcontinent sits atop several tectonic plates.

And the movement of these plates can cause earthquakes and other geological events.

In conclusion, while the Plateau is a volcanic region, the volcanoes in the region are currently dormant.

There is no immediate threat of volcanic eruption.

However, the geological activity in the region is ongoing, and there is always a possibility of seismic and volcanic activity in the future

Conclusion:

The Deccan Plateau is a unique region of India. It has a distinct geological, cultural, and ecological characteristics that make it a significant and fascinating part of the country’s landscape. Its geological formation, cultural diversity, agricultural production, wildlife and biodiversity, and historical significance all contribute to its uniqueness and importance. Do you Know how the Himalayas were formed?

 

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