Convergence along the western margin of North America during the Cenozoic gave way to rifting forces which created the characteristic topography of the ____________.

Question

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The Basin and Range Province is known for its unique topography of alternating mountain ranges and flat valleys. This topography was formed due to the rifting forces caused by the separation of the North American Plate from the Pacific Plate. The Coastal Ranges, Colorado Plateau, and Columbia Plateau were also shaped by tectonic forces but not specifically by the rifting forces that created the Basin and Range Province.

Convergence Along the Western Margin of North America During the Cenozoic