College

The Inca adapted to their mountain environment by using _______ to grow crops.

A. chinampas
B. llamas
C. paddies
D. terraces

Please select the best answer from the choices provided:
A.
B.
C.
D.

Answer :

The Inca adapted to their mountain environment by using D: terraces.

The terraces were carefully constructed steps carved into the steep slopes of the Andes Mountains. This agricultural technique allowed the Incas to maximize arable land in a region with limited flat terrain.

Terracing not only provided more space for farming but also helped prevent soil erosion and managed water distribution efficiently, ensuring that crops received adequate irrigation.

By creating these terraces, the Incas could grow a variety of crops, including potatoes, maize, and quinoa, despite the harsh conditions of their environment. This innovative approach to agriculture was a key factor in the Inca Empire's ability to sustain a large population and thrive in a rugged landscape.

Final answer:

The Inca used terraces to adapt to the mountainous terrain of the Andes, which allowed them to cultivate crops effectively on steep slopes.

Explanation:

The Inca adapted to their mountain environment by using terraces to grow crops. The technique of terrace farming allowed Inca farmers to create flat, easily worked plots on the steep inclines of the Andes by cutting into the mountainside. This innovation was crucial for their agriculture, providing several benefits such as improved irrigation, reduced soil erosion, and creation of micro-climates suitable for diverse crops, including their main staple, maize.