MOUNTAIN RANGES OF THE WORLD

PRERNA FOR IAS

MOUNTAIN RANGES OF THE WORLD

1. Rocky Mountains

The Rocky Mountains, commonly called the Rockies, are one of the longest mountain ranges in North America, extending about 4,800 km from British Columbia in Canada to New Mexico in the United States. Formed mainly during the Laramide Orogeny around 80–55 million years ago, they contain numerous peaks exceeding 4,000 metres. The Rockies are rich in forests, glaciers, rivers, and wildlife such as bears, elk, and mountain goats. They are important for tourism, mining, forestry, and water resources. Major national parks include Yellowstone, Rocky Mountain National Park, and Banff National Park.

2. Andes Mountains

The Andes Mountains are the world's longest continental mountain range, stretching over 7,000 km along the western coast of South America through seven countries. They were formed by the subduction of the Nazca Plate beneath the South American Plate. The Andes contain Aconcagua (6,961 m), the highest peak outside Asia. The range includes volcanoes, glaciers, high plateaus, and rich mineral deposits. It supports diverse ecosystems and indigenous cultures such as the Incas. The Andes play an important role in agriculture, mining, hydropower, tourism, and climate regulation across South America.

3. Atlas Mountains

The Atlas Mountains extend across Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia in North Africa. They form a natural barrier between the Mediterranean coast and the Sahara Desert. The highest peak is Mount Toubkal (4,167 m) in Morocco. The range was formed by tectonic movements associated with the collision of the African and Eurasian plates. Atlas Mountains support cedar forests, unique wildlife, and fertile valleys suitable for farming. They influence regional climate by blocking desert winds and increasing rainfall. Tourism, agriculture, and mineral resources contribute significantly to the economy of the surrounding countries.

4. Alps

The Alps are Europe's highest and most famous mountain range, extending across France, Switzerland, Italy, Germany, Austria, Slovenia, Liechtenstein, and Monaco. They were formed by the collision of the African and Eurasian tectonic plates. Mont Blanc (4,808 m) is the highest peak in the Alps. The mountains contain glaciers, rivers, alpine meadows, and diverse wildlife. Major European rivers such as the Rhine, Rhone, and Po originate here. The Alps are globally known for skiing, mountaineering, tourism, hydropower, and dairy farming, making them one of Europe's most economically important mountain systems.

5. Caucasus Mountains