Advantages of Rift Valleys and Block Mountains

Advantages of block mountains

• Relief rainfall is common raising the amount of annual precipitation within the vicinity of such mountains.
• They have a cooler environments which invigorating tends to have fewer diseases associated and ailments with it.
• Have pastures for animals.
• Firewood and fruits.
• Offered fortifications during tribal warfares.
• Minerals such as gold and diamonds are usually found within their vicinity.
• Water can be obtained from springs.

Disadvantages of block mountains

• High erosion rates
• Wild animals can be found in mountainous areas
• Rock falls can be fatal to humans and damage infrastructure.
• Volcanic activities can take place and these can lead to loss of human lives
• Lack of moisture as the soil drains quickly due to steep slopes.
• Transport networks are difficult and expensive to construct in mountain regions.

Advantages of rift valleys

• Water for domestic and industrial use from is readily available in  lakes
• Pastures for animals can be found in most valleys e.g. the East African Rift Valley
• Fertile soils from sediment deposited by running water.
• Alluvial deposits from which can be found precious minerals such as gold.
• Fishing in lakes provide livelihood to people for example Lake Malawi and Lake Tanganyika
• Recreation activities in lakes for example sailing and other water sports
• Can provide tourist attractions.

Disadvantages of rift valleys.

• There is hot weather which can be stiffing and enervating on valley floors.
• Diseases such as malaria, bilharzia and typhoid abound in within such areas.
• Rock falls from the associated mountains can lead to loss of life or damage to infrastructure.
• Dangerous animals can be found in forests.
• Floods may occur on the valley floor.

To access more topics go to the Geography Notes page.

Image credit: Mountainprofessor.