Mountain range

The most general definition of a mountain range is a group of mountains bordered by lowlands. Mountain ranges are usually separated from other mountain ranges by passes and rivers. In the general definition, a mountain range does not necessarily have the same geology.

Related Topics:
Mountain - Passes

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The geological definition of a mountain range (also cordillera or sierra) is a grouping of mountains (often elongated) sometimes caused by tectonic plate interactions. For example, the Himalaya in Asia are the result of the India plate hitting the Asian plate.

Related Topics:
Sierra - Mountain - Tectonic plate - Himalaya - Asia - India

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Singular mountains are often the result of volcanic processes but in some instances, such as the Hawaiian Islands these processes can result in a chain of mountains that might be considered a mountain range.

Related Topics:
Volcanic - Hawaiian Islands

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Mountain ranges can be separated by height into three overlapping categories. The Himalaya, for instance, both comprises mid- and high-altitude mountain ranges.

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• Low-altitude mountain ranges
• Mid-altitude mountain ranges
• High-altitude mountain ranges
 
Mountain range: See also ►