Conifers often have needlelike leaves, which are an adaptation to arid conditions. The slopes of mountains, however, often have dense conifer populations and experience a large amount of rainfall each year. Which of the following correctly explains why trees with adaptations to arid climates flourish near mountains?

W) Albedo near mountains is high, desiccating normal leaves

X) Most soil water is frozen, rendering it unavailable to the tree

Y) The high winds near mountains increase the rate of desiccation

Z) The soil around mountains drains poorly
X) MOST SOIL WATER IS FROZEN, RENDERING IT UNAVAILABLE TO THE TREE