How does the Sierra Madre surround the Mexican Plateau?

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The Sierra Madre mountain system surrounds the Mexican Plateau by flanking it on three sides with distinct ranges:12

  • West: The Sierra Madre Occidental forms the western border of the plateau, characterized by its volcanic composition and deep gorges.2
  • East: The Sierra Madre Oriental, a range of folded sedimentary rocks, runs along the eastern side of the plateau.2
  • South: The Cordillera Neo-Volcánica (also known as the Trans-Volcanic Axis) links the western and eastern ranges at the southern edge of the plateau, creating a mountainous backdrop.2

Together, these ranges enclose the central plateau, which is further divided into the Mesa del Norte and the Mesa Central.12