Mountain formation

Science

Definition

Mountains form through tectonic processes over millions of years. Fold mountains arise when tectonic plates collide and compress rock layers. Volcanic mountains form from erupted material, and fault-block mountains form when large blocks of rock are uplifted along fault lines.

Examples

  • The Himalayas forming from the collision of the Indian and Eurasian plates
  • The Andes as a volcanic mountain range along a subduction zone
  • The Sierra Nevada as a fault-block mountain range in California

Related Terms

Plate tectonics Plate boundaries Tectonic plates Volcanic eruptions

Study This Concept

Practice mountain formation with free review games in these units:

Earth Science Unit 3: Volcanoes and Mountains