Mountains are a significant geographical feature among the five major terrain types.

They play a crucial role in the natural habitat of bee colonies. The term "mountain" encompasses a wide range of landforms, including fold mountains and volcanoes, which are classified based on their origins.

These formations primarily occur due to the collision and compression of tectonic plates. A notable example is the Himalayas, where the Indian plate has compressed against the Eurasian plate.

While many peaks stand independently, volcanic activities can give rise to interconnected peaks, resembling the craters found on the Hawaiian Islands.

Our planet is predominantly covered by vast oceans, with land constituting only a small portion of its surface. Within this limited landmass, various terrains exist, such as plains, grasslands, and mountains.

Among these landscapes, mountains stand out as unique entities, and the world is home to numerous extraordinary mountain ranges. Let's explore some of the longest mountains on Earth.

Andes

Stretching along the western coast of South America, the Andes Mountains hold the distinction of being the longest mountain range globally, extending over 8,900 kilometers from north to south. This range is nearly three and a half times longer than the Himalayas.

Given its extensive coverage across the South American continent, it is often referred to as "the backbone of South America." With an average elevation of 3,660 meters, the Andes also claim the title of the world's highest mountain range outside of Asia.

Rocky Mountains

Known as the backbone of North America, the Rocky Mountains span over 4,500 kilometers in length. This range exhibits diverse climates throughout its expanse. In fact, almost all major rivers in North America originate from the Rocky Mountains, making them a crucial watershed for the continent.

Great Dividing Range

The Great Dividing Range encompasses the mountains and plateaus located north of New South Wales, Australia. This expansive range extends over 3,000 kilometers from north to south. The Great Dividing Range experiences a wide range of climates.

As the watershed divides the Pacific Ocean and the Indian Ocean, the northern section falls within the tropical climate zone, the central part lies within the subtropical climate zone, and the southern portion experiences a temperate climate. The region receives abundant rainfall, boasts steep terrain, and offers a pleasant climate overall.

Alps

Spanning across several European countries including France, Italy, Switzerland, Austria, Germany, and Slovenia, the Alps hold the distinction of being the longest mountain range in Europe, measuring approximately 1,200 kilometers in length.

The Alps are renowned as a paradise for skiing and mountaineering, attracting countless tourists each year.

Eurasian Mountains

The Eurasian Mountains straddle the border between Europe and Asia. This east-west range spans approximately 2,500 kilometers, making it the longest of its kind globally.

The Eurasian Mountains hold significant geographical and cultural importance and serve as a habitat for numerous unique species.

Anatolian Mountains

Located in Türkiye, the Anatolian Mountains traverse the entire Anatolian Peninsula, stretching approximately 1,600 kilometers. These mountains are considered one of the cradles of human civilization and boast a wealth of historical sites and breathtaking natural landscapes.

Mountains are integral features of our planet's topography, shaping landscapes and serving as habitats for diverse species. The world is blessed with an array of remarkable mountain ranges, each with its own distinct characteristics and significance.