The term "Basin and Range" refers to the alternating pattern of valleys and mountain ranges.

This geological term describes a distinctive landscape characterized by parallel mountain ranges that run north-south, separated by low-lying basins or valleys. The Basin and Range Province, primarily located in the western United States, exemplifies this pattern, resulting from extensional tectonics that have stretched the Earth's crust over millions of years. The interplay of these features creates a unique topography, contributing to diverse ecosystems and climates. This alternating arrangement not only defines the region's physical characteristics but also plays a crucial role in its ecology and hydrology.