Question

read the passage and answer the following question(s).
water distribution on earth
yacob is learning about precipitation patterns for the
united states. he studies a precipitation map as
shown.
annual average precipitation in the lower 48 united states
farmers often drill wells into the groundwater systems to
provide the water necessary to supply their crops. in which
areas of the united states would farmers wells most
likely take the longest to run out of water?
a. areas on either side of the rocky mountains
b. areas on either side of the cascade mountains
c. areas on either side of the appalachian mountains
d. areas on either side of the sierra nevada mountains

Explanation:

The Cascade Mountains, Sierra Nevada Mountains, and Rocky Mountains create rain - shadow effects. Areas on the leeward (dry) side of these mountains receive less precipitation. The Sierra Nevada Mountains' leeward side (as shown in the map with lower precipitation levels) would lead to more water stress for farmers. In contrast, the Appalachian Mountains do not create such extreme rain - shadow effects with as large a dry area on one side.

Answer:

D. areas on either side of the Sierra Nevada Mountains