Which feature makes the Mexican plateau significant
The Mexican plateau is significant because it is the highest and most extensive plateau in Mexico, with an average elevation of 6,000 ft (1,800 m) above sea level. It covers an area of approximately 570,000 square miles (1,500,000 square kilometers) and is home to some of the most important cities in Mexico, including Mexico City. The plateau's high elevation and central location make it essential for transportation and communication between different regions of the country. Additionally, the plateau's fertile soil and moderate climate make it an important agricultural region.
The Mexican plateau, also known as the Mexican Altiplano or the Mexican highlands, is significant due to several key features:
1. Geographic Location: The Mexican plateau is located in the central part of Mexico, spanning several states including Mexico City, Guanajuato, Michoacán, and Puebla. Its central location in the country makes it a hub for transportation and trade routes, connecting various regions of Mexico.
2. Altitude: The plateau is situated at high altitudes, with an average elevation ranging from 2,000 to 2,500 meters (6,500 to 8,200 feet) above sea level. The high altitude creates a distinct climate, with cooler temperatures and lower atmospheric pressure.
3. Size and Extent: The Mexican plateau covers a significant portion of Mexico's land area, extending over 20% of the country. It encompasses diverse landscapes, including broad valleys, plateaus, and mountain ranges such as the Sierra Madre Oriental and the Sierra Madre Occidental.
4. Agricultural Importance: The plateau's fertile soil and favorable climate support intensive agriculture, making it one of the most productive agricultural regions in Mexico. Various crops are grown, including corn, wheat, barley, beans, fruits, and vegetables. The plateau's agriculture contributes significantly to Mexico's economy and food production.
5. Human Settlements: The Mexican plateau has a long history of human habitation, with archaeological sites dating back thousands of years. It is home to numerous cities, including Mexico City, the country's capital and one of the largest metropolitan areas in the world. The plateau's population density, coupled with urban and industrial development, makes it an important center of population and economic activity.
Overall, the combination of its geographic location, altitude, size, agricultural productivity, and human settlements make the Mexican plateau a significant and unique feature within Mexico.
The Mexican plateau is significant for several reasons, but one key feature that stands out is its high elevation. The plateau sits at an average elevation of around 6,000 feet (1,830 meters) above sea level, making it one of the highest plateaus in the world.
To understand why this feature is important, we need to consider its impact on various aspects of the region:
1. Climate: The high elevation of the Mexican plateau affects its climate significantly. The cooler temperatures at higher altitudes create more moderate, temperate climates across much of the plateau. This makes it suitable for agricultural activities and supports diverse ecosystems.
2. Biodiversity: The Mexican plateau's elevation and diverse climates contribute to its rich biodiversity. The varying habitats found on the plateau, from alpine forests to semi-arid areas, support a wide range of plant and animal species, including endemic and endangered ones.
3. Agriculture: The cooler temperatures and fertile soils on the Mexican plateau make it ideal for agricultural activities. The region is known for its production of various crops, such as maize, wheat, beans, and potatoes. The high elevation also allows for the cultivation of cash crops like coffee and fruits that thrive in cooler climates.
4. Human Settlement: The Mexican plateau's high elevation has been influential in shaping human settlement patterns. Its temperate climate and arable land have attracted numerous indigenous civilizations throughout history, such as the Toltec, Teotihuacan, and Aztec civilizations. The capital city of Mexico, Mexico City, is also located on the plateau.
To summarize, the high elevation of the Mexican plateau contributes to its suitable climate for agriculture, diverse biodiversity, and historical significance as a hub for human settlement.