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Which rivers cut gap valleys through the Carpathian Mountains?
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Carpathian Mountains
Regional division of the Carpathian Mountains (top) and a geologic cross section of the Western Carpathians (bottom). The location of the cross section is shown by the line N–S on the map.
The Danube River and several of its tributaries cut deep gap valleys through the Carpathian Mountains as a result of the region's geological history and the action of running water.12
Specifically, the rivers identified as having developed such gap sections include:
- The Danube: Notably at the Iron Gate near Orșova, Romania.12
- The Váh: A tributary of the Danube.32
- The Hernád: A tributary of the Danube.2
- The Olt: A tributary of the Danube.32
These valleys were formed as the mountain chain was repeatedly uplifted by orogenic movements, leaving behind deeply incised gaps that dissect the various mountain ranges.2