Basin And Range Province Flashcards, test questions and answers
Discover flashcards, test exam answers, and assignments to help you learn more about Basin And Range Province and other subjects. Don’t miss the chance to use them for more effective college education. Use our database of questions and answers on Basin And Range Province and get quick solutions for your test.
What is Basin And Range Province?
The Basin and Range Province is a physiographic and geological region located in the western United States, spanning from southeastern California to southwestern Utah. It encompasses an area of approximately 200,000 square miles, making it the largest physiographic province in North America. The Basin and Range Province was formed by extensional tectonic forces that have affected the area for millions of years. These forces have resulted in a range of mountain ranges separated by wide basins, where sedimentary layers accumulate over time.The Basin and Range Province is characterized by its high elevation ranges which are separated by deep valleys or basins. Most of the mountain ranges are composed of igneous and metamorphic rocks with sedimentary deposits at their bases, which were formed during periods of intense geologic activity such as plate collisions or volcanic eruptions. These mountains are often steep-sided with sharp ridgelines that define their shape and provide a distinct visual contrast to their surrounding environment. The basins between these mountain ranges are typically wide open spaces with flat terrain that often contain alluvium deposits from rivers that flow through them intermittently during wet periods. The climate in the Basin and Range Province is generally arid to semi-arid due to its location at higher elevations within an extensive desert region. This climate has created unique ecosystems within this region; many species have evolved specifically to survive conditions like extreme temperatures and low precipitation levels throughout much of the year. These species include pronghorn antelope, bighorn sheep, black-tailed jackrabbits, coyotes, kit foxes, mule deer, sagebrush lizards, snakes like sidewinders and rattlesnakes among other animals along with various types of vegetation adapted for survival in these harsh desert conditions such as yucca plants or Joshua trees among others. Overall the Basin and Range Province is an impressive region filled with many natural wonders; it provides visitors with exceptional views offered by its rugged landscape consisting of high peaks surrounded by vast valleys below as well as many opportunities for recreational activities due to its diverse flora/fauna species living here as well as its varied terrain ranging from deserts to canyons among other features this area has to offer those who explore it.