Mountains
Learn more about mountains!
1. There’s an interesting way to measure mountains.
How do you measure a mountain? While many will base at ground level, plenty actually base below the water. That’s why, in many cases, people measure mountains and peaks from water level upwards. It’s seen as the fairest way to compare peaks.
2. We rely on mountains for the drinkable stuff!
Mountains are hugely important sources of water. In fact, up to 80% of the freshwater we drink comes from the peaks. Therefore, we have a lot to thank them for!
3. Everest is still the tallest of them all.
The highest peak in the world is Mount Everest, found out in the Himalayas, at more than 29,000 feet tall.
4. Asia has the majority of the tallest peaks on the planet.
The 14 tallest mountains on the planet are found in Asia, specifically in the Himalayas range.
5. How are mountains created?
Mountains are formed through forceful movements in plate tectonics. This means that pieces of the Earth’s crust smash against each other to create huge peaks of land. Mountain creation can take centuries.
6. Mountains may not be immune to earthquakes.
In fact, it’s thought that earthquakes may actually fell mountains, too. For example, it is thought that Mount Everest may have actually been a lot taller were it not for seismic activity.
7. Everest isn’t the biggest mountain on the planet, however.
While Mount Everest holds the record for being the largest peak on land, the tallest peak top to bottom can be found out at sea. This record belongs to Mauna Kea, a dormant volcano that measures more than 33,400 feet from base to peak. Its home is in Hawaii.
8. 20% of the world is up a mountain.
Believe it or not, around a fifth of all land on planet Earth is thought to be mountainous. That’s why you’ll find peaks and valleys as far spread as Scotland, France, Russia, China, South Africa and beyond. If there’s one thing most territories have in common across the globe, it’s the presence of mountains.
As well as covering much of the Earth’s surface, mountains are said to be home to up to 10% of the world’s population.
9. Mountains are spread far and wide.
There are plenty of mountain ranges across the world, too. A range is a long link of mountains which cluster together. For example, one of the most famous mountain ranges around the world is the Rocky Mountain trail. On the whole, mountain ranges and trails stretch for more than 1,000 miles.
