**Mountains** and **plateaus** are both landforms that are formed by the movement of tectonic plates. While they share some similarities, there are distinct differences between them. Let's explore these differences in detail.

**Mountains:**
1. **Definition:** Mountains are tall, elevated landforms that rise above the surrounding areas. They are typically characterized by steep slopes, rugged terrain, and high elevations.
2. **Formation:** Mountains are formed through the process of **tectonic activity**. When two tectonic plates collide or move apart, it can result in the formation of mountains. The immense forces generated during these plate interactions cause the Earth's crust to fold, fracture, and uplift, leading to the creation of mountains.
3. **Characteristics:**
- Mountains are usually much taller and steeper than plateaus.
- They often have pointed or jagged peaks.
- They can be found in ranges or chains, such as the Himalayas, Andes, or Rocky Mountains.
- Mountains are commonly associated with other features like valleys, canyons, and rivers.
- They are often covered with snow and ice at higher elevations, forming glaciers.
4. **Function:**
- Mountains provide a variety of habitats for plants and animals.
- They act as barriers, affecting weather patterns and causing rain shadows on the leeward side.
- They are often popular tourist destinations and offer recreational activities like hiking, climbing, and skiing.

**Plateaus:**
1. **Definition:** Plateaus are flat, elevated landforms with relatively level surfaces. They are characterized by steep cliffs or slopes on their edges, while their tops are mostly flat.
2. **Formation:** Plateaus are formed through various geological processes, including tectonic uplift, volcanic activity, or erosion. They can be uplifted by tectonic forces or created by the eruption of lava that solidifies and forms a flat surface.
3. **Characteristics:**
- Plateaus have relatively flat or gently sloping tops.
- They are often bounded by steep cliffs or scarps.
- Plateaus can be extensive, covering large areas of land.
- They may have river valleys cutting through them.
- Examples of plateaus include the Colorado Plateau in the United States and the Deccan Plateau in India.
4. **Function:**
- Plateaus provide fertile land for agriculture due to their level surfaces and good drainage.
- They often contain valuable mineral deposits.
- Plateaus are also important for water storage as they can hold reservoirs and lakes.
- They can act as natural barriers, protecting the lower-lying areas from erosion and floods.

In summary, while both mountains and plateaus are elevated landforms, mountains are taller, steeper, and have rugged terrain, while plateaus have flat or gently sloping tops. Mountains are formed through tectonic activity and are associated with other features like valleys, while plateaus can be formed through various geological processes and often have steep cliffs on their edges. Mountains have pointed or jagged peaks and are covered with snow and ice, whereas plateaus are relatively flat and can provide fertile land for agriculture.