What geological process led to the creation of the Australian Alps?

The creation of the Australian Alps is primarily attributed to the movement of tectonic plates causing uplift. This geological process occurs when tectonic forces push land masses together, resulting in the formation of mountains and ranges.

In the case of the Australian Alps, the uplift is a result of the interactions between the Australian and Pacific tectonic plates. As these tectonic plates collide and exert pressure, the crust is forced upwards, creating the mountainous terrain of the Alps. This process is common in many mountain ranges around the world and is crucial for understanding how geological features like the Australian Alps are formed over geological time scales.

While the other processes listed, such as intense weathering and glacial activity, can significantly shape and modify landscapes, they are considered secondary processes that influence existing formations rather than the primary cause of the mountain formation itself.