Snow-capped mountains are caused by elevation and temperature variations, where temperatures are low enough for snow to accumulate and persist throughout the year. As altitude increases, the air cools, leading to precipitation falling as snow rather than rain. The permanent snow cover, or glaciers, forms due to this accumulation of snow over time, often seen in ranges like the Himalayas and the Andes. These snow-capped peaks are not only breathtaking but also play a vital role in the Earth’s climate and water cycle.