Final answer:
The Himalayas were formed through the process of plate tectonics, specifically continental collision between the Indian Plate and the Eurasian Plate. This collision caused the uplift and folding of the Earth's crust, resulting in the formation of the Himalayan mountain range. This process is ongoing and the Himalayas continue to grow at a slow rate.
Step-by-step explanation:
The physical process most likely responsible for the formation of the Himalayas is plate tectonics. The Himalayas were formed as a result of the collision between two tectonic plates, the Indian Plate and the Eurasian Plate. When the Indian Plate collided with the Eurasian Plate, it caused the uplift and folding of the Earth's crust, leading to the formation of the Himalayan mountain range.
This process is known as continental collision. It occurs when two continental plates collide, causing the crust to buckle and fold, creating mountain ranges. In the case of the Himalayas, the Indian Plate, which was once a separate tectonic plate, collided with the Eurasian Plate, resulting in the formation of the majestic Himalayan mountains.
The Himalayas are still actively being formed and are considered a relatively young mountain range in geological terms. They continue to grow at a rate of about 1 centimeter per year due to ongoing tectonic forces.
Learn more about plate tectonics