What Factor Most Influences the Dry Deserts of Nevada

Question

What factor most influences the dry deserts of Nevada?
A) the hot desert sun
B) the Pacific Ocean
C) overgrazing by livestock
D) the rain shadow from a California mountain range

Accepted Answer

The rain shadow effect from a California mountain range is the most influential factor in creating the dry deserts of Nevada. Mountain ranges to the west of Nevada, such as the Sierra Nevada, block moisture from the Pacific Ocean, creating arid conditions on the eastern side of the mountains. This creates a rain shadow effect, where the air is dry and rain is scarce, leading to the formation of deserts. The other options do not have as significant of an impact on the desert conditions in Nevada.