Which two factors explain why salt was so valuable to West Africans?
A.Salt helped prevent dehydration in the hot climate.
B.Salt was used as a form of currency.
C.Salt was one of the exotic goods traded by the Asian traders.
D.Salt was used to preserve food.
E.Salt was available only in Zimbabwe.
To determine which two factors explain why salt was so valuable to West Africans, let's evaluate the given options.
A. Salt helped prevent dehydration in the hot climate.
This option is a valid factor explaining the value of salt to West Africans. In hot climates where water loss through sweating is high, consuming salt helps retain water and prevent dehydration.
B. Salt was used as a form of currency.
This option is also correct. In many West African societies, salt was used as a medium of exchange, similar to currency. It was highly valued and used for trade purposes.
C. Salt was one of the exotic goods traded by Asian traders.
While salt may have been traded by Asian traders, it is not specifically mentioned as a factor explaining the value of salt to West Africans. This option is not relevant.
D. Salt was used to preserve food.
This option is another valid factor explaining the value of salt. Before refrigeration, salt was commonly used as a preservative for food, allowing it to be stored for longer periods without spoiling. In West Africa, where food preservation was crucial, salt played an important role.
E. Salt was available only in Zimbabwe.
This option is incorrect. Salt was not exclusively available in Zimbabwe. Salt deposits were present in various locations beyond Zimbabwe, and it was traded throughout West Africa.
Based on the above analysis, the two factors that explain why salt was so valuable to West Africans are:
A. Salt helped prevent dehydration in the hot climate.
B. Salt was used as a form of currency.
These factors highlight the importance of salt in sustaining health and enabling trade in West African societies.