Elevation refers to the height of a point in relation to sea level or ground level. It is a crucial concept in geography and is used to describe the vertical position of landforms, such as mountains and valleys. For instance, the elevation of Mount Everest is approximately 8,848 meters, making it the highest point on Earth. Understanding elevation is important for various fields, including meteorology, aviation, and environmental science. Changes in elevation can affect climate, weather patterns, and biodiversity. For example, as elevation increases, temperatures generally decrease, which can lead to distinct ecological zones, such as those found in the Andes or the Himalayas.