Have you ever wondered what it would be like to stand at the top of a mountain? Maybe you have gone hiking on a steep hill or have seen snow-capped mountain peaks from an airplane. The earth is filled with hills, valleys, and mountain ranges that are all uniquely different. Here are some cool facts about mountains!
How Are Mountains Formed?
Some mountains are formed when tectonic plates (huge slabs of rock in the earth’s crust) push against each other over a long period of time, like the ridges that are made when you push opposite ends of a dish towel together on a table. The Himalaya Mountains in Asia are an example of mountains formed from tectonic plates.
Volcanic mountains are formed from melted rock that starts deep underground. When the melted rock (called magma) breaks through the surface of the earth, it is called lava. The lava cools and forms into volcanic rock that over time forms into a volcanic mountain. Mount Fuji in Japan is an example of a volcanic mountain.
The Tallest Mountains in the World
Mount Everest is part of the Himalayan mountains. It straddles the border between Nepal and China. It is usually named the tallest mountain in the world, standing 29,032 feet (8,849 meters) above sea level. Above sea level means how tall something is compared to the average level of the world’s oceans. Some people say that the Mauna Kea mountain in Hawaii is the tallest mountain in the world if you measure from its base, which is on the floor of the Pacific Ocean. By that measurement it is about 33,496 feet (10,210 meters) tall!
Cool Mountain Animal Facts
There are lots of animals that make their homes in mountain ranges around the world. These animals include the snow leopards in the Himalayas, spectacled bears in the Andes Mountains of South America, mountain goats in North American mountains, and so many more!
Did you know?
- Snow leopards have wide paws, allowing them to walk easily on snow without sinking—the perfect snowshoes!
- Andean (spectacled) bears are omnivores. They eat berries, grasses, bulbs, cactus flowers, rodents, and even birds.
- A female mountain goat is called a nanny, a male is a billy, and young goats are called kids!
Our Mighty Creator
Mountains are wonderful parts of creation that show the power of God. There are many Bible verses that mention mountains, like Psalm 95:4:
In his hand are the depths of the earth,
and the mountain peaks belong to him.
The next time you see a spectacular mountain range, don't forget to praise God for his mighty power and strength!
About the Author
Christin Baker is a full-time stay-at-home mom who also writes for Faith Alive. She is a member of Resurrection Fellowship Church in Grand Rapids, Mich.
