Which state is famous for its coastal backwaters (Kayals)?
a) Tamil Nadu
b) Kerala
c) Goa
d) Maharashtra
Answer: a) Canyon / Gorge
Explanation
-
Canyon / Gorge: A deep, narrow valley with exceptionally steep or cliff-like rock walls cut into the earth over thousands or millions of years by the continuous erosive action of a flowing river (fluvial erosion).
-
Difference between Canyon and Gorge:
-
Gorge: A narrow, deep valley with very steep, nearly vertical walls, often formed in resistant rock structures.
-
Canyon: A broader, step-like deep valley cut through arid or semi-arid layered rock, often spanning a larger geographic area.
-
-
Famous Indian Examples:
-
Gandikota Canyon: Located in Kadapa district, Andhra Pradesh, cut by the Pennar River—often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of India”.
-
Indus & Brahmaputra Gorges: Massive deep river gorges cut through the high Himalayan mountain ranges (e.g., the Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon formed by the Brahmaputra).
-
Overview of Other Options
-
b) Dune: A mound or ridge of loose sand accumulated and shaped by the wind in arid regions or along coasts.
-
c) Plain: A broad, flat, or gently rolling landform elevated near sea level, typically formed by river silt deposition (e.g., Indo-Gangetic Plains).
-
d) Plateau: A vast, elevated flat-topped tableland that rises abruptly above the surrounding terrain on at least one side (e.g., Deccan Plateau).
