How did mountains and deserts help Chinese civilization develop?Group of answer choicesProvided fertile farmlandMade transportation easierLimited invasions

Mountains and deserts played a significant role in the development of Chinese civilization. Here's how:

1. Limited Invasions: The geographical features of China, such as the Himalayan mountains and the Gobi desert, served as natural barriers against invasions. These natural barriers made it difficult for foreign invaders to penetrate into the Chinese heartland, thus providing a level of security that allowed Chinese civilization to flourish.

2. Provided Fertile Farmland: While it's true that mountains and deserts are not typically associated with fertile farmland, the mountainous regions of China are home to several major rivers, including the Yangtze and the Yellow River. These rivers have deposited rich, fertile soil in their valleys over thousands of years, creating excellent farmland. This fertile land was crucial for agricultural development, which in turn supported the growth of Chinese civilization.

3. Made Transportation Easier: This might seem counterintuitive, but certain mountains and deserts actually facilitated transportation and trade in ancient China. For example, the Silk Road, a major trade route that connected China with the West, passed through treacherous mountain passes and deserts. Despite the challenging terrain, this route was vital for the exchange of goods