What geological feature is formed by the tectonic uplift of land?

A plateau is a geological feature characterized by its elevated flat terrain, which is formed through tectonic uplift. This process occurs when tectonic plates collide or move apart, causing the land to rise. The resulting plateau is usually surrounded by steep cliffs or sides, distinguishing it from other landforms. Plateaus can be vast and extensive, often spanning hundreds or thousands of square miles, and they may host unique ecosystems and geological formations due to their height and flatness.

In contrast, a plain is a broad, flat area of land that is typically low in elevation and not formed by uplift. Valleys are typically low-lying areas between hills or mountains created by erosion or deposition processes rather than uplift. Hills, while raised landforms, are usually not extensive enough to be classified as plateaus and can arise from various processes, including erosion and sediment deposition.

The defining characteristic of a plateau—its extensive, elevated, and flat nature—clearly distinguishes it as the outcome of tectonic uplift, making it the correct answer in this context.