Final answer:
The dry deserts of Nevada are most influenced by the rain shadow effect, which occurs when prevailing winds carrying moisture from the ocean are forced to rise over mountain ranges. This leads to precipitation on the windward side of the mountains, leaving the leeward side, where Nevada is located, dry and creating a rain shadow.
Step-by-step explanation:
The dry deserts of Nevada are most influenced by the rain shadow effect.
The rain shadow effect occurs when prevailing winds carrying moisture from the ocean are forced to rise over mountain ranges. As the air rises, it cools and loses moisture, resulting in precipitation on the windward side of the mountains. However, by the time the air reaches the leeward side, it has become dry and creates a rain shadow, leading to arid conditions.
In the case of Nevada, the coastal mountains and the Sierra Nevada in California receive most of the rainfall, leaving the desert regions of Nevada very dry.