Which of the following is a characteristic of major terrain features?

Major terrain features are significant geographical formations that play a crucial role in various contexts, such as military operations, navigation, and land use planning. The reason why the identification of hills and valleys as major terrain features is correct lies in their scale and impact on the landscape. Hills and valleys are indeed recognized as major terrain features due to their prominence and physical characteristics, which can greatly influence movement, visibility, and strategic considerations.

Hills, for instance, provide elevated positions that can be vital for observation and defense, while valleys can serve as natural pathways for movement. This distinction underscores their importance and broad recognition in geographical assessments.

In contrast to this, the assertion that they are smaller than minor terrain features does not hold, as major terrain features are defined by their larger size and greater influence on the environment. Likewise, the idea that they are exclusively natural formations is limiting; many major terrain features can be altered or constructed by human action, reflecting the dynamic relationship between the environment and human activity. Finally, the notion that they cannot be modified by human activity is inaccurate, as many major terrain features have been significantly altered by human development, infrastructure, and agriculture.