5. which of the following was an effect of the discovery of gold and silver on western development?

a. it caused a sharp decrease in the population of eastern cities
b. there was no loner a need for the railroad
c. the value of gold and silver decreased
d. it contributed to the opening of the western frontier

d. it contributed to the opening of the western frontier. The discovery of gold and silver in the western region of the United States attracted many people to migrate westward and settle in the newly formed mining towns, which led to the development and expansion of the western frontier.

To determine which of the following options was an effect of the discovery of gold and silver on western development, we can analyze each option and eliminate any that do not accurately describe the impact of this discovery.

a. It caused a sharp decrease in the population of eastern cities: This option is not directly related to the impact of gold and silver discovery on western development. The discovery of gold and silver did not directly cause a decrease in the population of eastern cities. Therefore, we can eliminate this option.

b. There was no longer a need for the railroad: This is also an unlikely effect of the gold and silver discovery. While the discovery of precious metals influenced western development, it did not eliminate the need for railroads. Railroads were a crucial transportation method during this period and were still necessary for connecting and developing the western regions. Thus, we can eliminate this option.

c. The value of gold and silver decreased: This is an incorrect statement. The discovery of gold and silver usually leads to an increase in their value due to their scarcity and demand. Therefore, we can eliminate this option.

d. It contributed to the opening of the western frontier: This option accurately describes the effect of the discovery of gold and silver on western development. The discovery of these precious metals attracted a large influx of people, commonly known as the Gold Rush, which led to the opening and rapid development of the western frontier regions. Therefore, we can determine that option d is the correct answer.

In conclusion, the effect of the discovery of gold and silver on western development was that it contributed to the opening of the western frontier (option d).

The correct answer is d. it contributed to the opening of the western frontier. The discovery of gold and silver in the western regions of the United States played a significant role in stimulating the development and exploration of the western frontier. This led to increased migration, the establishment of mining towns, and the expansion of economic opportunities in the West.