Mountain formation is the geological process by which mountains are created through tectonic plate movements, volcanic activity, or erosion. There are several ways in which mountains can form, including through the collision of tectonic plates, the upwelling of magma from the Earth's mantle, or the gradual erosion and uplift of existing landforms. Mountains can be formed through the process of continental collision, where two tectonic plates collide and force the Earth's crust to buckle and fold, creating large mountain ranges such as the Himalayas. Volcanic activity can also lead to mountain formation when magma erupts from the Earth's mantle and solidifies on the surface, building up over time to form volcanic mountains like Mount St. Helens. Erosion can also play a significant role in mountain formation, as rivers, glaciers, and wind can gradually wear away at the Earth's surface, carving out valleys and leaving behind mountain peaks. This process, known as exhumation, can expose previously buried rock layers and create new mountain ranges. Overall, mountain formation is a complex and dynamic process that involves a combination of tectonic forces, volcanic activity, and erosion over millions of years. These geological processes shape the Earth's surface and create some of the most spectacular landscapes on our planet.