ridges

Ridges are long, narrow elevations that form a continuous crest of high ground. In geology and physical geography, the term applies to both terrestrial and submarine features that stand above adjacent terrain.

Terrestrial ridges commonly arise through tectonic uplift, faulting, and differential erosion. Mountain ranges can consist of several parallel ridges separated by valleys. In some landscapes, ridges are created by resistant rock layers that survive erosion as surrounding rocks wear away. Glacial processes can sharpen ridges into aretes and serrated crests.

Ridges often act as drainage divides, directing river flow along their flanks. Their orientation reflects structural controls such as folds and faults and can influence climate, soils, and vegetation through exposure, slope, and aspect.

Under the oceans, ridges form at divergent tectonic plate boundaries where magma rises to create new lithosphere. Mid-ocean ridges, such as the Mid-Atlantic Ridge or East Pacific Rise, rise as submarine mountain ranges and host axial rift valleys and frequent hydrothermal activity. The ridges are offset by transform faults and accommodate plate spreading.

Ridges are important in geology and geomorphology for understanding tectonics, erosion, and landscape evolution, and they commonly feature in topographic maps and regional geology.