The Playa plain covered up by salts is called:

The correct answer is Alkali flats.

Key Points

• Alkali flats, also known as salt flats or playas, are large areas covered by salt and other minerals.
• These flats are typically found in arid and semi-arid regions where water evaporation leaves behind salts.
• Alkali flats are usually remnants of ancient lakes that have dried up over time.
• They are often characterized by a hard crust of salt on the surface, which can be several centimeters thick.
• These areas are usually inhospitable to most forms of plant life due to the high salt concentration.

Additional Information

• Formation Process:
  • Alkali flats form in closed basins where water cannot escape except by evaporation.
  • As water evaporates, it leaves behind dissolved salts, leading to the formation of salt crusts.
• Ecological Importance:
  • Despite their harsh conditions, some extremophiles (organisms that thrive in extreme environments) can live in alkali flats.
  • These flats can also serve as unique habitats for specialized plant and animal species.
• Examples of Alkali Flats:
  • Famous alkali flats include the Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah, USA, and the Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia.
  • These locations are often used for various activities such as land-speed racing and tourism.
• Human Impact:
  • Human activities such as mining can disrupt the delicate balance of these ecosystems.
  • Conservation efforts are sometimes necessary to protect these unique landscapes.