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Letter VGeology glossary

Volcanic Plateau

A volcanic plateau is a large, flat elevated area formed by extensive volcanic activity, typically through the accumulation of successive lava flows. These plateaus are significant in volcanology for understanding the processes of flood basalt eruptions, the formation of large igneous provinces, and the role of volcanic activity in shaping the Earth’s surface.

Massive basalt cliffs in a dry desert landscape (volcanic plateau)
Fig. 1 Massive basalt cliffs in a dry desert landscape (volcanic plateau)

Source Cox, K. G. (1980). “Flood Basalts, Subduction, and the Breakup of Gondwanaland.” Nature, 283(5748), 252-255.

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