Question

How can mountains be classified according to their different size and arrangement?

Answer 1

Mountains can be classified according to their different size and arrangement as given below :

1. Cordillers: These are large regions of mountains topography which are characterised by a large number of chains and ranges.
2. System: It is formed of several associated ranges. These ranges should be similar in position, form and structure although treanches or basins may separate them.
3. Chain: It is a series of ridges in one line although separated by trough like valleys.
4. Range: It is a linear arrangement consisting of a large number of peaks and ridges separated by valleys. The different mountains possess a unity of form and structure.
5. Group: It is a circular or massive arrangement of peaks and ridges. Group formations often result from the erosion of laccolths.
6. Ridge: It is the individual arch or block that results from folding and faulting. It may be of various types according as the slope is steep on one side or the other.
7. Peaks: These are formed by the less regular beds resisting denudation. They may be dome-like or pyramidical or needle-shaped. Their shape depends upon the rock structure and joint planes of the region. The peaks and ridges may either be arranged parallel to one another or may be quite isolated of may be arranged like features round a dome or they may be cones formed due to volcanic extrusion.