Mountains: Peaks and Ranges

Characteristics of Mountains

Mountains are landforms significantly higher than the surrounding landscape. They are typically characterized by:

• A broad base.
• Steep slopes.
• A narrow summit (peak).

Mountains vs. Hills

While both are elevations, hills are generally lower in height, have less steep slopes, and possess rounded tops compared to mountains.

Mountain Ages

• Young Mountains: These have tall, sharp peaks (e.g., The Himalayas).
• Old Mountains: These are shorter and more rounded due to millions of years of erosion (e.g., The Aravalli Range).

Mountain Ecosystems

As altitude increases, the temperature drops, leading to distinct zones of life:

1. Montane Forests: Lower slopes are covered with conifers like pines, firs, spruce, and deodar. These trees are tall and cone-shaped with needle-like leaves to allow snow to slide off.
2. High Altitude Vegetation: At very high altitudes, trees disappear, giving way to grasses, mosses, and lichens.
3. Fauna: Animals adapted to cold and rugged terrain include the Snow Leopard, Yak, Ibex, Himalayan Tahr, and Golden Eagle.

Life in the Mountains

Mountain life is beautiful but challenging.

• Terrace Farming: Because of steep slopes, farmers cut “steps” into the mountainside to create flat land for crops.
• Occupations: Tourism, herding, and pilgrimages are major sources of income.
• Natural Hazards: People must be resilient against:
  • Avalanches: Sudden falls of snow/ice.
  • Landslides: Collapse of earth or rock.
  • Cloudbursts: Sudden, violent rainstorms leading to flash floods.