The collision between the North American and African plates caused the Earth's crust to thicken and shorten, resulting in the formation of a series of large mountains. The collision also caused the rocks in the area to be folded, faulted, and uplifted. The folding and faulting created a variety of different landforms in the Appalachian Mountains, including ridges, valleys, and plateaus.
The Appalachians are divided into two main regions: the Northern Appalachians and the Southern Appalachians. The Northern Appalachians are located in Canada and the northeastern United States, while the Southern Appalachians are located in the eastern United States. The Northern Appalachians are characterized by gently rolling hills and valleys, while the Southern Appalachians are characterized by more rugged terrain, with steep slopes and deep valleys.
The Appalachian Mountains are an important part of the North American landscape. They provide a variety of resources, including coal, timber, and water. They are also a popular destination for outdoor recreation, such as hiking, camping, and fishing.