Final answer:
Landforms in regions without active tectonics or volcanism are shaped by long-term weathering and erosion processes acting on rocks of different strengths, resulting in a variety of geological features such as valleys and ridges dependent on rock resistance.
Step-by-step explanation:
Landforms in regions without active volcanic or tectonic activity are primarily shaped by the forces of weathering and erosion acting upon different rock strata with varying resistance. Instead of tectonic forces such as earthquakes and volcanic activity which form mountains and valleys through deformation, these landforms arise from regional surface processes that sculpt the Earth's crust over the span of geologic time. Layers of rock that are more resistant to weathering and erosion will become prominent features such as ridges or cliffs, while less resistant rocks are worn away to form valleys or basins.
As an example, the Grand Canyon in the United States showcases how the Colorado River has carved through rock layers over millions of years, revealing a tapestry of Earth's geological history. Similarly, in regions with older geological features, such as the Appalachians, we observe rounded peaks and extensive valleys formed from prolonged erosion processes that have acted upon the rock formations for hundreds of millions of years.
In conclusion, without the influence of active tectonics or volcanism, the landscape is predominantly shaped by long-term erosion and weathering processes, with the resulting landforms dependent on the composition and strength of the underlying rock layers.