Final answer:
The builders of the Transcontinental Railroad faced physical geographic challenges such as mountainous terrain, harsh weather conditions, and limited water sources. They adapted by using engineering techniques, constructing protective structures, and establishing water resupply stations.
Step-by-step explanation:
The builders of the Transcontinental Railroad faced several physical geographic challenges. One major challenge was the mountainous terrain of the western United States, particularly the Sierra Nevada and Rocky Mountains. These mountain ranges posed significant obstacles in terms of constructing tracks and tunnels. To overcome this challenge, the builders used engineering techniques such as blasting tunnels through mountains and building high trestles and bridges.
Another challenge was the harsh weather conditions, including extreme temperatures, heavy snowfall, and flash floods. To adapt to these conditions, the builders constructed snowsheds and avalanche fences to protect the tracks and trains from snowslides and avalanches. They also laid tracks on a grade to allow for drainage during heavy rains.
The builders also had to contend with the vast stretches of arid land and limited water sources in the western regions. To address this, they established water resupply stations along the route and built water storage facilities to ensure a steady water supply for the steam engines.