Final answer:
Forests are most likely found on the windward side of a mountain due to the rain shadow effect, with environmental conditions like soil moisture and fire patterns influencing their distribution. Lush forests benefit from these wetter conditions while leeward and shaded sides may have other growth.
Step-by-step explanation:
You would be most likely to find a forest on the windward side of a mountain, which is the side that faces oncoming prevailing winds. As moist air from these winds rises up the mountain slope, it cools and condenses, forming clouds and precipitation. This process creates a wetter and more fertile environment that supports the growth of lush forests. Conversely, the leeward side of the mountain, sheltered from these winds, receives less precipitation and is often drier, making it less suitable for dense forests. This pattern is consistent with what is known as the rain shadow effect.
Additionally, factors like soil moisture, fire patterns, and the presence of species such as conifers and amphibians also contribute to where forests are located. The montane forests depicted in the photo and the shade-loving lichens on the north side of trees are examples of how specific environmental conditions contribute to forest development.