Question

1. which mountain range forms the continental divide?

the cascade range
the appalachian mountains
the coast mountains
the rocky mountains

Explanation:

Define the Continental Divide

The Continental Divide of the Americas is a principal hydrological divide of North America. It separates the watersheds that drain into the Pacific Ocean from those river systems that drain into the Atlantic and Arctic Oceans.

Identify the associated mountain range

Using the North American Geography knowledge point, we locate this major hydrological boundary. The Great Divide runs along the high peaks of the Rocky Mountains, stretching from northwestern Canada, through the United States, and down into Mexico.

Evaluate the given options

• the Cascade Range: Located in western North America, extending from southern British Columbia through Washington and Oregon to Northern California. It is not the main continental divide.
• the Appalachian Mountains: Located in eastern North America. While they form a regional divide, they do not form the primary Continental Divide of the continent.
• the Coast Mountains: Located along the Pacific coast of British Columbia and Alaska, west of the main continental divide.
• The Rocky Mountains: This massive western range contains the high peaks that form the primary Continental Divide.

Select the correct option

The Rocky Mountains form the Continental Divide, making the fourth option the correct choice.

Answer:

• the Cascade Range
• the Appalachian Mountains
• the Coast Mountains
• The Rocky Mountains (Correct answer)