The Andes form Earth's longest mountain chain

Geography
The Andes form Earth's longest mountain chain

Spanning 4,300 miles, the Andes are Earth's longest mountain range, shaping South America's climate, ecosystems, and ancient civilizations, while continuing to rise today.

Stretching 4,300 miles along South America's western edge, the Andes are the longest continental mountain range on Earth. This colossal chain, running through seven countries, began forming about 45 million years ago and continues to rise, creating a dramatic backbone for the continent.

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