From the Himalayas to the Andes, the world's great mountain ranges shape climate, borders, and history. This quiz marks each major range on the map — see a name, click its location.
The Great Ranges
A handful of ranges dominate the map:
Himalayas — southern Asia, home to Everest and the highest peaks on Earth.
Andes — the western spine of South America and the longest range on land.
Rocky Mountains — running down western North America.
Alps — the arc across south-central Europe.
Ural Mountains — the low, worn range marking the boundary between Europe and Asia.
Where Mountains Form
Mountains rise where tectonic plates collide, so the great ranges cluster in predictable places.
The Pacific Ring of Fire throws up the Andes and the Rockies along the Americas' western edge. The collision of the Indian and Eurasian plates pushed up the Himalayas — still growing today. Older ranges like the Urals and Appalachians are the eroded stumps of ancient collisions, which is why they are lower and rounder than young ranges like the Alps.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the highest mountain range in the world?
The Himalayas in southern Asia are the highest range, containing Mount Everest (8,849 m) and most of the world's tallest peaks.
What is the longest mountain range?
The Andes of South America are the longest mountain range on land, stretching about 7,000 km down the western edge of the continent. The longest range overall is the underwater Mid-Ocean Ridge.
Which mountains divide Europe and Asia?
The Ural Mountains, running north to south through western Russia, are the traditional boundary between Europe and Asia.
Why do mountain ranges form where they do?
Most ranges form at tectonic plate boundaries where plates collide or slide past each other, which is why they line the western Americas and stretch across southern Asia.
Is the mountain ranges quiz free?
Yes — it runs free in your browser with no download or signup. Sign in with Google to save your score.