Question

what role did irrigation techniques play in the success of the olmecs? a it allowed them to find new sources of water. b it allowed them to survive in an arid environment. c it allowed them to flood the cities populated by their enemies. d it allowed them to cultivate an excess of agricultural products.

Explanation:

The Olmecs lived in regions with potentially arid conditions. Irrigation techniques help in providing water for agriculture in dry environments, enabling survival. Option A is incorrect as irrigation is about using water, not finding new sources. Option C is illogical as flooding cities isn't a goal of irrigation. Option D: while excess agriculture could result, the primary role in their success (especially in an arid context) was survival via enabling agriculture in dry areas, so B is correct.

Answer:

B. It allowed them to survive in an arid environment.