Characteristics of fold mountains

Fold mountains are formed when sedimentary rock strata in geosynclines are subjected to compressive forces.
They are the loftiest mountains, and they are generally concentrated along continental margins.
Fold mountains belong to the group of youngest mountains of the earth.
The presence of fossils suggests that the sedimentary rocks of these folded mountains were formed after accumulation and consolidation of silts and sediments in a marine environment.
Fold mountains extend for great lengths whereas their width is considerably small.
Generally, fold mountains have a concave slope on one side and a convex slope on the other.
Fold mountains are mostly found along continental margins facing oceans (C-O Convergence).
Fold mountains are characterized by granite intrusions (formed when magma crystallises and solidifies underground to form intrusions) on a massive scale.
Recurrent seismicity is a common feature in folded mountain belts.
High heat flow often finds expression in volcanic activity (Himalayas is an exception, because of C-C convergence).
These mountains are by far the most widespread and also the most important.
They also contain rich mineral resources such as tin, copper, gold etc.