What geological processes occurred during the Cenozoic Era?

The Cenozoic Era is characterized by significant geological and climatic changes that shaped the Earth's surface and environment. One of the most prominent processes during this era has been mountain building, particularly of the Rocky Mountains and the Himalayas.

During the Cenozoic, the North American tectonic plate continued to interact with the Pacific plate, leading to uplift and the formation of the Rockies. In the Himalayas, the collision of the Indian plate with the Eurasian plate resulted in an extensive process of orogeny, which is still ongoing today. This mountain building is not only important for understanding the geological history of these regions but also informs us about the tectonic forces at play and the impact of these formations on climate and biodiversity.

While other processes such as rifting and subduction do occur, the period is predominantly noted for these significant mountain-building events. The continued tectonic activity in these regions highlights the dynamic nature of the Earth’s crust during the Cenozoic.