I have roots nobody sees, I tower above trees, I grow without being alive, and I never need water. What am I?

This riddle perfectly describes a mountain, a majestic landform that holds secrets beneath its surface. When the riddle speaks of "roots nobody sees," it refers to the deep geological structures that anchor mountains to the Earth's crust. Unlike plants, these aren't organic roots, but rather vast rock formations extending far below the visible peaks, forming the foundation of these colossal features. Their towering presence above trees is a clear characteristic, as mountains are defined by their significant elevation above the surrounding landscape.

Mountains also embody the concept of growth without being alive. They are not living organisms, yet they continuously change and, in geological terms, grow. This "growth" occurs over millions of years through powerful forces like tectonic plate collisions, where the Earth's crust is pushed upwards, or through volcanic activity, as lava and ash build up to form new peaks. These slow, immense processes demonstrate a dynamic existence without any biological life.

Finally, the line "I never need water" highlights their inanimate nature. As geological formations, mountains do not require water for sustenance, though water in the form of rain, snow, and ice plays a crucial role in shaping their surfaces through erosion. From the dramatic peaks sculpted by ancient glaciers to the vast ranges formed by continental drift, mountains are enduring testaments to the Earth's immense power and geological history, constantly evolving on a timescale far beyond human comprehension.