Urals

views updated May 21 2018

Urals Range of mountains in Russia, traditionally marking the boundary between Europe and Asia. The range extends 2400km (1500mi) from the Arctic in the n to the River Ural and the Kazakstan frontier in the s. The mountains are extensively forested and the timber industry is important. The Urals' chief importance lies in their mineral deposits, which include iron ore, oil, coal, copper, nickel, gold, silver, zinc, and many precious stones. These resources have given rise to the Urals industrial region. Industrial development was increased under the first two Soviet five-year plans (1929–39) and during World War 2, when many industries were moved there from w Soviet Union. The highest peak is Mount Narodnaya, rising to 1894m (6214ft).