Plutons are large, igneous rock formations that form beneath the Earth's surface when magma cools and solidifies slowly over time. They can vary in size and shape, often resulting in features like batholiths, stocks, and laccoliths. These formations are typically composed of coarse-grained minerals, making them distinct from volcanic rocks that cool quickly on the surface. Plutons are important for understanding the geological history of an area, as they can reveal information about the conditions under which they formed. They are often associated with tectonic activity and can influence the landscape, contributing to the formation of mountains and other geological features related to plate tectonics.