Final answer:
The Andes mountains have affected communities in South America through vertical trade and the cultivation of different crops at different elevations, leading to diverse local cuisine and culture.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Andes mountains have had a significant impact on the communities in South America. One major effect is vertical trade, where different goods are grown at different elevations and traded between communities. For example, cultures on the coast would trade with those in the highlands. Additionally, the diverse environment of the Andes has led to a range of agricultural practices and the cultivation of different crops such as maize, hot peppers, potatoes, and coca. This has influenced the local cuisine and culture.