How is the spread of the potato related to an increase in population in the Old World? (1 point)
A. • The potato does not grow easily outside of the Andes. This means that it did not lead to an increase in population in the Old World.
B. • The potato does not correlate with an increase in population in the Old World.
C. • The potato grows easily in warm, comfortable climates. This means that it grew well everywhere except northern Europe, leading to an increase in population
D. The potato grows easily in cold, harsh climates. This means that it grew well in northern Europe, providing a dependable food source that led to an increase
in population.
D. The potato grows easily in cold, harsh climates. This means that it grew well in northern Europe, providing a dependable food source that led to an increase in population.
D. The potato grows easily in cold, harsh climates. This means that it grew well in northern Europe, providing a dependable food source that led to an increase in population.
To determine the correct answer to this question, we need to consider the characteristics of the potato and how it spread to the Old World, as well as its impact on population.
The potato is originally from the Andes region in South America. It was domesticated by indigenous peoples in this area and cultivated for thousands of years before reaching other parts of the world.
To find out how the spread of the potato is related to an increase in population in the Old World, we can eliminate the options that are incorrect based on the knowledge we have about the potato's growth conditions and historical context.
Option A states that the potato does not grow easily outside of the Andes, implying that it did not lead to an increase in population in the Old World. This is incorrect because the potato was successfully cultivated in other regions, not just the Andes, as it spread to different parts of the world. Therefore, option A can be eliminated.
Option B suggests that there is no correlation between the potato and an increase in population in the Old World. Without any further context, it is difficult to determine the accuracy of this statement. However, considering the historical significance of the potato as a reliable food source, this option seems unlikely. Therefore, option B can be eliminated as well.
Now we are left with options C and D. Option D states that the potato grows easily in cold, harsh climates, which allowed it to thrive in northern Europe. This provided a dependable food source, leading to an increase in population. This is the correct answer because the potato is indeed adaptable to different climates, including colder regions, which enabled its successful cultivation in northern Europe. As a result, it provided a stable food source that contributed to population growth in these areas.
In contrast, option C suggests that the potato grows easily in warm, comfortable climates, which means it grew well everywhere except northern Europe, leading to an increase in population. However, this is inaccurate as the potato thrives in various climates, including both warm and colder regions. Therefore, option C can be eliminated.
To summarize, the correct answer is D: The potato grows easily in cold, harsh climates. This means that it grew well in northern Europe, providing a dependable food source that led to an increase in population.