Question

Investigate each statement and select the one that best describes why southwest south America has a dry climate

Answer 1

There are several factors that contribute to the dry climate in southwest South America. The best statement to describe this phenomenon would be:

"The dominant factor causing a dry climate in southwest South America is the presence of the cold Humboldt Current, which creates upwelling of cold water along the coast, inhibiting rainfall."

Other factors that may also contribute to the dry climate in this region include the presence of the Andes Mountains, which create a rain shadow effect and block moisture from reaching the interior, as well as the influence of trade winds. However, the Humboldt Current is the primary driver for the aridity in southwest South America.