What is the primary reason why mountains substantially taller than Mt.Everest are unlikely to arise on Earth?
A) The high geothermal gradient in the crust causes mountains to collapse under their own weight.
B) Exhumation proceeds faster than uplift.
C) Extreme elevations cause chemical weathering to outpace uplift.
D) Uplift is limited by the rate of subduction.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The high geothermal gradient in the crust weakens the rocks at depth, making it difficult for very tall mountains to support their own weight. This leads to a natural limit on how tall mountains can get before they begin to collapse under their own weight.

What Is the Primary Reason Why Mountains Substantially Taller Than