orogeny

Orogeny is the geological process that creates mountain ranges through the Earth's crust's deformation. It occurs primarily when large landmasses or tectonic plates collide, causing intense pressure, folding, faulting, and uplift of rocks. Over millions of years, these forces thicken the crust, forming mountains and ranges. Orogeny can be associated with subduction zones, continental collisions, and other plate boundary interactions. It plays a critical role in shaping Earth's surface, influencing climate, ecosystems, and the distribution of natural resources.