Relief is the shape of the earth's surface, which varies in level from one location to another. The elements that shape the relief come from internal forces (earthquakes and volcanism) and external forces (winds, rains, glaciers, etc.).
The Brazilian territory has different forms of relief. There are several classifications of national relief, however, the most accepted divides the relief of Brazil into plateau, plain and depression.
Plateau: these are high terrains, with altitudes above 300 meters. This type of relief can be found in different parts of the country, being characterized by the formation of plateaus and extensive flat surfaces.
An example of this form of relief is the Central Plateau in Brazil, which includes the Midwestern states, in addition to Minas Gerais and Tocantins.
The highest point in Brazil is Pico da Neblina, with 2,993.78 meters above sea level.
Pico da Neblina, the highest point in Brazil
Plain: is a form of recent relief, being characterized by extremely flat surfaces, with altitudes between 0 and 100 meters. These areas, due to their low altitude, are subject to flooding.
The Pantanal is the largest floodplain in the world
These formations are found in coastal regions or near rivers and lakes, such as on the banks of the Amazon River. The Pantanal, located in the states of Mato Grosso and Mato Grosso do Sul, in addition to Bolivia and Paraguay, is the largest floodplain on the planet.
Depression: characterized by relatively steep terrain whose altitude varies from 100 to 500 meters. Erosion is the main phenomenon responsible for the formation of this type of relief.
An example of depression in Brazil is the eastern edge of the Paraná watershed.
By Wagner de Cerqueira and Francisco
Graduated in Geography
Kids School Team
