Which of the following best explains why the older fold mountains are much lower and less rugged than the newer ones?
The newer fold mountains are situated in areas of active earth movements
The effects of earth movements resulting in mountain building are much greater nowadays than they were during the period of folding
The newer fold mountains, in contrast to the older ones, are made up of more resistance rocks
the older fold mountains have been subjectd to the forces of denudation for longer, geological periods
Most of the newer fold mountains are situated in the interior parts of continents where they are free from constant sea erosion
Explanation
No explanation available
Video Explanation
No video available
Post your Contribution
Discussions (1)
Older fold mountains have been subjected to the forces of denudation for longer geological periods. Let's break down why this is the case:
1. Forces of Denudation: Denudation processes include erosion (by water, wind, and ice), weathering (breaking down of rocks), and mass wasting (movement of material down slopes). These processes gradually wear down the surface of landforms, including mountains.
2. Time Factor: Older fold mountains have been in existence for much longer periods compared to newer ones. Over millions of years, these older mountains have been exposed to the relentless forces of denudation, resulting in the gradual wearing away of their peaks and rugged features.
3. Geological Age: Older fold mountains were formed during earlier geological periods when tectonic activity was still significant. While they experienced uplift and folding during their formation, they have since been undergoing erosion for much longer compared to newer fold mountains.
4. Less Rugged Terrain: Due to the prolonged effects of denudation, older fold mountains tend to have smoother, more rounded features compared to newer ones. Their once towering peaks have been gradually eroded away, resulting in lower elevations and less rugged terrain.
In contrast, newer fold mountains, such as the Himalayas or the Andes, are still undergoing active uplift and deformation due to ongoing tectonic activity. While they may be initially steep and rugged, they have not been exposed to denudation for as long as their older counterparts, resulting in their higher elevations and more rugged topography. Therefore, the cumulative effects of denudation over longer geological periods are the primary reason why older fold mountains are lower and less rugged than newer ones.
