What characteristic defines plateaus?

Plateaus are defined by their high elevation and relatively flat terrain, often characterized by extensive horizontal bedrock. This flatness is due to geological processes that typically involve the uplifting of the land coupled with minimal erosion. The horizontal layers of rock are consistently evident across the extensive surface area of the plateau, making them distinct from other landforms such as mountains or valleys, which have more variable terrain canopies.

In contrast, low elevations with steep cliffs are characteristic of features like canyons or escarpments, while flat plains with volcanic activity refer to different geologically active areas, such as flood basalt plains. Variable elevations with rugged terrain describe mountain ranges or hilly regions where the topography is not uniform, unlike the more uniform and stable structure of plateaus. Thus, the defining feature of plateaus is their elevated position combined with a flat, expansive surface created by geological processes.