Mount Everest, the tallest mountain on Earth, is still growing—thanks to powerful geological forces beneath our feet. This remarkable natural phenomenon is the result of the Indian subcontinent slowly but steadily moving northward at a rate of about five centimetres per year. As it continues its journey, it collides with the Eurasian tectonic plate, causing the land to buckle and thrust upward, forming and elevating the mighty Himalayas.
Located in the heart of the Himalayas, Mount Everest directly benefits from this tectonic collision. Although the growth is extremely gradual, scientists have observed that the mountain’s height increases slightly over time. The most recent measurements confirm that, it stands at approximately 8,848.86 meters above sea level—and it’s not done yet.
This northward movement of the Indian Plate doesn’t just affect Mount Everest, but the entire Himalayan range. Earthquakes are also a frequent byproduct of this ongoing geological push, further shaping the landscape.
Researchers use satellite data and GPS instruments to monitor the growth and tectonic shifts in the region. The constant rise of Mount Everest is a powerful reminder that Earth’s surface is always changing, even if we cannot see it happen in real time.
So the next time you admire the snow-capped peaks of Mount Everest, remember—it is still on the rise, driven by forces deep within the Earth that never sleep.
Source : theguardian.com
