Correct Option: B. Broken ridge
Explanation of the Correct Answer
A
broken ridge is a landform characterized by a series of steep, rugged hills or ridges that are often formed through tectonic activity or erosion. In the context of the landform between River Oni and the Kedi-Ibaga road, the term "broken ridge" suggests that the area features a series of elevated terrains that are not continuous but rather fragmented or interrupted, which is typical of a broken ridge formation.
- Formation Process: Broken ridges can form due to various geological processes, including:
- Tectonic Activity: The movement of tectonic plates can create fractures in the Earth's crust, leading to the uplift of certain areas while others may sink or erode away.
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Erosion: Over time, weathering and erosion can wear down softer rock layers, leaving behind harder rock formations that create a rugged landscape.
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Characteristics: The characteristics of a broken ridge include:
- Steep Slopes: The sides of the ridges are often steep, making them visually distinct.
- Fragmentation: The ridges are not continuous; they may be separated by valleys or lower-lying areas.
- Elevation: They are typically higher than the surrounding terrain, providing a clear elevation difference.
Why the Other Options are Incorrect
A.
Rolling Plain:
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Definition: A rolling plain is a flat or gently undulating area of land with minimal elevation changes.
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Why Incorrect: The description of the landform between River Oni and the Kedi-Ibaga road suggests ruggedness and elevation, which does not align with the characteristics of a rolling plain. Rolling plains are smooth and lack the steep, broken features of a ridge.
B.
Broken Ridge:
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Correct Option: As explained, this option accurately describes the landform in question.
C.
Cuesta:
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Definition: A cuesta is a type of hill with a gentle slope on one side and a steep slope on the other, typically formed from sedimentary rock layers.
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Why Incorrect: While cuestas do have a distinct slope, they are more uniform and do not exhibit the fragmentation characteristic of broken ridges. The presence of a single steep side and a gentle side does not match the description of a broken ridge.
D.
Fault-scarp:
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Definition: A fault-scarp is a steep slope or cliff that forms along a fault line due to tectonic movement.
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Why Incorrect: Although fault-scarps can be steep, they are typically linear and associated with specific fault lines. The term "broken ridge" implies a more complex and fragmented structure rather than a singular, linear feature.
Summary of Key Points
- Correct Answer: B. Broken ridge, characterized by steep, rugged hills that are fragmented.
- Formation: Result from tectonic activity and erosion, leading to elevated and rugged landscapes.
- Characteristics: Steep slopes, fragmentation, and elevation distinguish broken ridges from other landforms.
- Incorrect Options: Rolling plains are flat, cuestas are uniform with a single slope, and fault-scarps are linear and associated with fault lines.
This detailed understanding of the landform types and their characteristics will help you identify and differentiate between various geographical features in your studies.