A flat, elevated landform characterized by a relatively level or gently sloping surface, typically situated at a higher elevation than surrounding areas, and often bounded by steep slopes, cliffs, or escarpments, resulting from geological processes such as erosion, uplift, or volcanic activity, and commonly found in continental interiors, mountain ranges, or desert regions. Plateaus may vary in size, elevation, and geological composition, and support diverse ecosystems, habitats, and human settlements.