How are the Ural Mountains divided into five main regions?

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The Ural Mountains are divided into five distinct physiographic sections, extending from north to south:1

  • Polar Urals: The northernmost section, stretching approximately 240 miles. This area is characterized by an Alpine landscape featuring glaciers and permafrost, with elevations typically between 3,300 and 3,600 feet.1
  • Nether-Polar Urals: Extending over 140 miles to the south, this region contains the highest peaks in the entire range, including Mount Narodnaya. Like the Polar Urals, it is marked by Alpine terrain and glaciers.1
  • Northern Urals: Stretching more than 340 miles, this section is known for its flattened summits—remnants of ancient, uplifted peneplains—and extensive areas of weathered rock known as "seas of stone".1
  • Central Urals: Extending over 200 miles, this is the lowest section of the range. Its summits are generally smooth and rarely exceed 1,600 feet in elevation.1
  • Southern Urals: The final portion, spanning about 340 miles, consists of several parallel ridges that culminate in Mount Yamantau. This section terminates in the low-lying Mughalzhar Hills.1