Final answer:
The difficulty in trade between the Maritimes and central Canada was primarily due to the geographical distance and challenging terrain that made transportation of goods difficult. Cultural and language differences were present but not the main barrier to commerce during the historical periods in question.
Step-by-step explanation:
Trade between the Maritimes and central Canada was historically difficult primarily due to geographical distance. The vast land expanse and challenging terrain, including mountains and extensive coastlines, created significant barriers to transportation and commerce. While there have been cultural differences and language barriers, particularly between French-speaking Quebec and the rest of Canada, these were not the primary reasons for difficulty in trade during the time periods being considered. Instead, the difficulty mainly arose from the challenges of traversing long distances in a time when transportation infrastructure was less developed, making the physical movement of goods between these regions cumbersome. Moreover, geographic and demographic differences inevitably affect commerce, health, and the environment, influencing trade opportunities and challenges.