Final answer:
Mountains are formed through a process called orogeny, which involves the collision of two tectonic plates. Once formed, mountains are subject to erosion by water and ice, which sculpt their peaks and edges. Without the presence of moving ice or running water, mountains on other celestial bodies remain smooth and dull.
Step-by-step explanation:
Mountain ranges are formed through a process called orogeny, which involves the collision of two tectonic plates. Continental masses moving on a collision course apply great pressure against each other, causing the Earth's crust to buckle and fold. Some rocks are dragged deep below the surface while others are raised to form folds that can become mountain ranges.
Once mountains are formed, they are subject to erosion by water and ice, which wear them down over time. Water and ice are effective sculptors of rock and can create sharp peaks and serrated edges. Without the presence of moving ice or running water, mountains on other celestial bodies remain smooth and dull.