A mountain range is a series or chain of mountains that are closely connected and arranged in a line, often linked by high ground such as ridges or passes. These mountains usually share similar geological origins and characteristics, forming a continuous elevated area distinct from surrounding land

. Mountain ranges can extend for hundreds or thousands of kilometers and often consist of multiple peaks that rise at least 300 meters above the surrounding terrain

. They are typically formed by tectonic processes such as the collision or movement of Earth's plates, which push the crust upward to create mountains

. Examples of major mountain ranges include the Himalayas in Asia, which contain the highest peaks in the world, and the Andes in South America, which is the longest mountain range on land

. Mountain ranges may also be found underwater, such as the Mid-ocean Ridge, which is the longest continuous mountain system on Earth but mostly submerged beneath the ocean

. In summary, a mountain range is a connected group of mountains forming a distinct elevated region, created mainly by tectonic forces, and characterized by multiple peaks aligned in a linear or clustered pattern