hill
landform
Quick Summary
soil profiles on hillslopes
The thickness and composition of soil horizons vary with position on a hillslope and with water drainage. For example, on the upper slopes of poorly drained profiles, underlying rock may be exposed by surface erosion, and nutrient-rich soils (A horizon) may accumulate at the toeslope. On the other hand, in well-drained profiles under forest cover, the leached layers (E horizon) may be relatively thick and surface erosion minimal.
A hill is a landform that rises above the surrounding terrain and has a relatively confined summit. Hills are generally understood to be smaller than mountains, though there is no formal distinction between the two. Hills can also refer to an upward slope or an area of high ground. Additionally, the term "hill" can describe a pile or mound of things, such as dirt created by ants. The verb "to hill" means to form into a pile or ridge of earth.12
Summary created from Britannica articles
using AI.
AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.
3 Britannica Sources
Ask Britannica AI about this topic
Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.