U.S. deserts in Nevada and northern Arizona are largely the result of the Sierra Nevada Mountains ____.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The Sierra Nevada Mountains in eastern California act as a barrier for moist air coming off the Pacific Ocean, causing it to drop much of its moisture as rain and snow on the western side of the mountains. By the time the air reaches the eastern side of the mountains, it is dry and has lost most of its moisture, resulting in a rain shadow effect. This dry air then moves over Nevada and northern Arizona, contributing to their desert environments.

US Deserts in Nevada and Northern Arizona Are Largely the Result