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Letter TGeology glossary

Tectonic Uplift

Tectonic uplift refers to the vertical elevation of the Earth’s surface due to tectonic forces, such as faulting or folding. This process is significant in geology for understanding the formation of mountain ranges, the evolution of landscapes, and the interplay between tectonics and erosion. 

Mountain uplift diagram showing tectonic uplift and erosional processes
Fig. 1 Mountain uplift diagram showing tectonic uplift and erosional processes

Source Molnar, P., & England, P. (1990). “Late Cenozoic Uplift of Mountain Ranges and Global Climate Change: Chicken or Egg?” Nature, 346(6279), 29-34.

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