Exploring the World's Major Mountain Ranges

Next Generation Science

This educational video takes students on a global tour of Earth's most significant mountain ranges, beginning with a clear explanation of geological formation. It illustrates how tectonic plate collisions and volcanic activity push the Earth's crust upward to create these massive structures. The video defines what a mountain range is and sets the stage for a detailed exploration of specific ranges across different continents. The content dives deep into four major mountain systems: the Alps in Europe, the Rockies in North America, the Andes in South America, and the Himalayas in Asia. For each range, the video highlights unique characteristics, including specific flora (like Edelweiss) and fauna (such as bears, llamas, and condors). It also touches upon human geography, discussing how local cultures—from Swiss cheesemakers to Sherpa guides and Inca farmers—have adapted to life at high altitudes. This resource is highly valuable for geography and earth science classrooms as it bridges physical geography with biology and social studies. It provides concrete examples of altitude zonation, showing how ecosystems change as one moves up a mountain. The video serves as an excellent tool for teaching about plate tectonics, animal adaptations, and the critical role mountains play in the global water cycle.