Which significant geographic feature is associated with the Inca empire?

The Andes Mountains are directly associated with the Inca Empire, which thrived in the western region of South America from the early 15th century until the Spanish conquest in the 16th century. The Incas established their civilization in the high-altitude areas of these mountains, which provided natural fortification and access to various resources. The Andes were not only significant for their geographic features but also played a crucial role in the development of Inca agricultural practices, as the Incas developed terrace farming techniques to adapt to the steep slopes of the mountains.

In addition to their agricultural innovations, the mountains served as vital routes for communication and transportation. The famed Inca road system connected various parts of the empire, allowing for efficient movement of goods, military troops, and information across vast distances, all facilitated by the challenging terrain of the Andes.

The other geographic features listed are not relevant to the Inca Empire. The Amazon River lies to the east of the Andes and is part of a different ecosystem and cultural context. The Rocky Mountains are located in North America, while the Appalachian Mountains are in the eastern United States, both of which are geographically and culturally distinct from the Inca civilization. Thus, the association of the Andes Mountains with the Inca Empire reflects