Final answer:
The mountains and deserts of South America provide resources and opportunities for economic development, shaping the culture of the people who live there. While they can pose challenges, they have generally contributed to progress.
Step-by-step explanation:
The mountains and deserts of South America are means of development rather than barriers. This is because these physical features provide various resources that contribute to economic activity and wealth creation. For example, the Andes Mountains hold mineral riches that have been extracted for centuries. Additionally, the diverse climate zones in South America allow for the development of a wide range of species and natural resources.
Furthermore, the mountains and deserts have shaped the culture and practices of the people who live in these regions. The diverse environment has given rise to architectural and artistic practices that are unique to South America.
On the other hand, while these physical features present opportunities for development, they can also pose challenges. For instance, rural regions in the Andes or the interior may lack the necessary economic support to modernize their infrastructure. Overall, the mountains and deserts of South America have played a significant role in the region's development and have been more of a means of progress than barriers.