Question

Classify mountains on the basis of their origin. Explain each type.

Answer 1

On the basis of origin, mountains can be classified into the following three categories:

1. Fold mountains: These mountains are formed by the folding of tectonic layers within the Earth's surface. They are of two types: young fold mountains and old fold mountains. The Himalayas and the Rockies are of recent origin; hence, they are known as young fold mountains. The Aravallis, on the other hand, are comparatively old, so they are called old fold mountains.

2. Block mountains: The horizontal movement of plates results into cracks and faults on the Earth's surface. With the breaking of these faults, blocks emerge. When they rise to a high elevation, they are referred to as block mountains. They have steep slopes and flat tops. One example is the Black Forest in Germany.

3. Volcanic mountains: These mountains are formed as a result of the solidification of the lava that is vented out of volcanos and gets accumulated near their mouth. Cotopaxi in South America, Fujiyama in Japan and Rainier in the USA are the mountains of volcanic origin.