What are chinampas?

Chinampas are indeed floating gardens utilized for agriculture by the Aztecs. This highly innovative agricultural technique involved constructing raised beds in shallow lake waters, which allowed for year-round farming. The Aztecs created these artificial islands by layering mud and decaying vegetation, which provided rich soil for growing crops.

Chinampas significantly boosted agricultural productivity, enabling the Aztecs to sustain a large population in the Valley of Mexico. They could cultivate various crops, including maize, beans, and squash, often growing multiple harvests in a single year. This method of farming is a prime example of how Mesoamerican civilizations adapted to their environment, utilizing the surrounding lakes to enhance their agricultural output.

In contrast to the correct answer, the other options do not accurately represent chinampas. Altars used for worship are related to religious practices, trading posts pertain to commerce, and pottery types relate to artistic expression, none of which describe the agricultural significance and function of chinampas in Aztec society.