The most general definition of a mountain range is a group of mountains bordered by lowlands. Mountain ranges are usually separated from other mountain ranges by passes and rivers. In the general definition, a mountain range does not necessarily have the same geology.
The geological definition of a mountain range (also cordillera or sierra) is a grouping of mountains (often elongated) sometimes caused by tectonic plate interactions. For example, the Himalaya in Asia are the result of the India plate hitting the Asian plate.
Singular mountains are often the result of volcanic processes but in some instances, such as the Hawaiian Islands these processes can result in a chain of mountains that might be considered a mountain range.
Mountain ranges can be separated by height into three overlapping categories. The Himalaya, for instance, both comprises mid- and high-altitude mountain ranges.
- Low-altitude mountain ranges
- Mid-altitude mountain ranges
- High-altitude mountain ranges
Mountain Ranges can also have different terrestrial biomes: at the bottom, they may have grasslands, then a coniferous forest or boreal forest, then a tundra at the top.
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