Geology and Land Formation

Mountains are one of the most spectacular features of the earth's landscape, rising majestically above the surrounding flat plains. They are formed by a variety of geological processes, such as tectonic plate movements, volcanic eruptions, and erosion. The process of mountain formation can take millions of years and involves the gradual movement and collision of tectonic plates. When two plates collide, they create a mountain range, as the rocks in the plates are folded and uplifted.

Once mountains are formed, they are constantly being shaped and eroded by various natural forces, such as wind, water, and ice. Erosion is the process of wearing away the surface of the mountains, and it can occur through the action of water, wind, or ice. Rivers and streams carry sediment from the mountains down to the lower elevations, which can cause changes to the landscape over time. Wind erosion occurs when strong winds pick up and move small particles of rock and soil, which can carve out distinctive features on the mountain's surface. Finally, ice erosion occurs in cold climates where glaciers form, and they can carve deep valleys and shape the mountains.

TOEFL Vocabulary Quiz

1. Which of the following words is closest in meaning to "majestically" as used in the passage?

A. quickly
B. gracefully
C. dangerously
D. frequently

2. What is the synonym of the word “sediment” in the passage?

A. segments
B. deposit
C. sedation
D. seismic

3. The word "landscape" in the passage is closest in meaning to

A. destruction
B. plateaus
C. climate
D. terrain