Mountain Belt Formation & Plate Tectonics

Plate Tectonic Theory
Formulated during the 1960's, the Plate Tectonic Theory is widely accepted among geologists. Plate tectonics describes motions of the Earth's crust and mantle. The fractures divide the brittle layers on the Earth's surface which forces in hot interior which moves the plates. The shift and movements of the plates are considered one of the main causes for geological events. They have raised mountains, open and closed basins in the ocean, influenced evolution, and is a cause of volcanoes and earthquakes.

Mountain Belt Formation
The thickening of the Earth's crust is considered the formation of the mountain belt. The mountain belts are typically formed due to plate tectonic activity. When the plates collide they crumple and stick together or are sutured together. The process that produces the mountain building is called orogenesis, which include; Folding (anticlines & synclines), thrust faulting, metamorphism, and igneous activity. The Appalachian, Andes, Apls, Ural, Himalya, Rocky, and Cascade Mountains are great examples of the mountain belt formation. (1999, Gore).
The mountain belt can be transformed due to extreme cold or hot temperatures. The intense heat produced by the Earth may cause the plate to melt and attach itself to another plate. The cold temperatures may loosen the plate and shift it somewhere else. Erosion is an issue for mountains because pieces may be broken off and carried away. Water and wind may break down the particles of a mountain and disturb the foundation. A person climbing on mountains also disturbs the formation. (2005, Steckler).