Final answer:
As we move from Charlotte, NC to the coastal plains, the terrain changes from rolling hills to flat plains, an increase in wetlands is observed, and there is a decrease in elevation with a gently sloping coastline.
Step-by-step explanation:
As we move from Charlotte, NC towards the coastal plains of North Carolina, there are distinct changes in landforms and terrain due to geographic and environmental factors.
- Transition from Piedmont to Coastal Plain: Charlotte is situated in the Piedmont, which is characterized by rolling hills. As you move towards the eastern part of the state, the elevation decreases, and the terrain transitions into the flat, and sometimes swampy, Coastal Plain region.
- Appearance of Wetlands: The Coastal Plain is known for extensive wetlands, including marshes and swamps, due to the numerous rivers and tidewater streams that create widespread wetland landscapes.
- Decreased Elevation and Slope: The coastline, especially in the Atlantic coast of North Carolina, has a gently sloping nature that makes it susceptible to land area loss. This contrasts with the steeper geography found in the Piedmont of Charlotte.
The movement across these regions underscores the significant impact that geographic processes such as sedimentation, erosion, and varying geological features have on the development of landforms such as plains and swamps, shaping the physical landscape of North Carolina.