Final answer:
The Mojave Desert features a variety of landforms beyond the national preserve, including canyons, plateaus, rock formations, valleys, mountain ranges, and lava flows.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Mojave Desert, located in the southwestern United States, is home to a variety of landforms beyond the boundaries of the national preserve. Some of these landforms include:
- Canyons: The Mojave Desert features numerous canyons, such as the Valles Marineris canyon complex, which is 3000 kilometers long and 8 kilometers deep.
- Plateaus: Mesa Verde National Park is accessed by driving up to a plateau, showcasing the unique geological formations of the area.
- Rock formations: The Mojave Desert is known for its distinctive rock formations, including high-pillared rocks and smooth walls ideal for painting and engraving.
- Valleys: Death Valley National Park, located near the boundary between two tectonic plates, showcases valleys formed through rock deformation and faulting.
- Mountain ranges: Mountains in the region, such as the Sierra Nevada and the nameless cordillera, contribute to the rain shadow effect and impact the local climate.
- Lava flows: The Mojave Desert has areas with past volcanic activity, leaving behind lava flows and black rocks.