Question

both temperature and precipitation change with elevation. as elevation increases, temperatures become cooler and precipitation increases. in general, species richness is higher in areas with warmer temperatures and more precipitation. however, in higher elevation areas, species richness is often lower due to harsher climatic conditions. why do you think elevation affects both temperature and precipitation?

Explanation:

As elevation increases, air pressure decreases and air expands and cools (adiabatic cooling). Cool air has a lower capacity to hold moisture, leading to condensation and precipitation. Also, cooler temperatures at higher elevations limit the types of species that can survive due to harsher environmental conditions.

Answer:

As elevation increases, air pressure drops causing air to expand and cool. Cool air can't hold as much moisture, resulting in condensation and precipitation. Harsh cooler - temperature conditions at high elevations limit species richness.