The Ural Mountains
Explanation
The geographical boundary between Europe and Asia is not separated by a major ocean but is traditionally defined by specific physical landforms, primarily mountain ranges and river systems.Option Analysis:
- The Himalayas The Himalayas: Incorrect. The Himalayas are located entirely within Asia. They separate the plains of the Indian subcontinent from the Tibetan Plateau.
- The Andes The Andes: Incorrect. The Andes are located in South America, running along the continent's western coast. They are the longest continental mountain range in the world.
- The Ural Mountains The Ural Mountains: Correct. The Ural Mountains run approximately north to south through western Russia, from the coast of the Arctic Ocean to the Ural River and northwestern Kazakhstan. They form the primary conventional boundary separating the continent of Europe from Asia.
- The Alps The Alps: Incorrect. The Alps are the highest and most extensive mountain range system located entirely within Europe, stretching across countries such as France, Switzerland, Italy, and Austria.
Key Takeaway: The Ural Mountains act as the traditional physical divide between Europe and Asia.