Question

Explain the effect of the Southern Alps on the climate east of the mountains.
(1 point)
Responses

Their snow and ice have a chilling effect, keeping the central and eastern areas cool and wet.
Their snow and ice have a chilling effect, keeping the central and eastern areas cool and wet.

They divert precipitation into the east area, creating monsoon conditions.
They divert precipitation into the east area, creating monsoon conditions.

They act as a barrier, protecting the area east from the prevailing west winds.
They act as a barrier, protecting the area east from the prevailing west winds.

Their presence intensifies the speed of the roaring forties.
Their presence intensifies the speed of the roaring forties.

Answer 1

They act as a barrier, protecting the area east from the prevailing west winds — the Southern Alps force moist westerlies to drop rain on the west side, leaving the east in a rain‑shadow (drier, often warmer) climate.