How Do You Spell DECCAN TRAPS?

Pronunciation: [dɪkˈan tɹˈaps] (IPA)

The Deccan Traps are a volcanic province in India, known for their extensive lava flows and occasional eruptions. The word Deccan is pronounced as /ˈdɛkən/, and it refers to the southern region of the Indian subcontinent. The word Traps, on the other hand, is pronounced as /træps/, and it is a geological term that refers to a series of flat-topped hills formed by ancient lava flows. The Deccan Traps are not only a fascinating geological feature but also a popular tourist destination in India.

DECCAN TRAPS Meaning and Definition

1. Deccan Traps refers to a large volcanic province located in west-central India, covering an area of approximately 500,000 square kilometers. It is a geological term used to describe a vast region of basaltic lava flows that were formed as a result of repeated volcanic eruptions during the Late Cretaceous period, approximately 66 million years ago.

   The term "traps" in Deccan Traps is derived from the Swedish word for stairs, "trappa," as the region is characterized by extensive layers of volcanic basalt which overflowed over time, creating a step-like formation. These basaltic lava flows are estimated to be over 2,000 meters thick in some areas.

   The formation of the Deccan Traps is believed to be associated with the Reunion hotspot, an intense volcanic hotspot located beneath the Indian Ocean. As the Indian tectonic plate moved northwards over the hotspot, a series of mega-eruptions occurred, resulting in massive outpourings of lava over millions of years.

   The Deccan Traps have significant geological and paleontological importance due to the immense volume of volcanic rock and the associated impact on Earth's climate and ecosystems. The volcanic activity during the formation of the Deccan Traps is believed to have played a role in the mass extinction event that marked the end of the Cretaceous period and the demise of the dinosaurs, although the specific causal relationship between the Deccan Traps and the extinction event is still a debated topic in scientific research.

Etymology of DECCAN TRAPS

The word "Deccan" is derived from the Sanskrit word "dakṣiṇa", which means "south". It refers to the region in southern India where the Deccan Traps are located. "Traps" in this context refers to a geological term. It comes from the Swedish word "trappa", which means "stairs" or "steps". In geology, "traps" are large, flat or gently sloping areas of igneous rock formed by volcanic activity. In the case of the Deccan Traps, the term refers to a massive volcanic feature in the Deccan region.