New Enroll in RBI Grade B New Batch - Starts on May 21

    Question

    When moisture-laden air moves toward a mountain, which

    portion of the mountain typically receives the highest precipitation?
    A Windward slope Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
    B Leeward slope Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
    C Summit area Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
    D Foothills region Correct Answer Incorrect Answer

    Solution

    The windward slope directly faces the incoming moisture-laden air. As this air ascends the mountain, it cools due to decreasing atmospheric pressure, reducing its capacity to hold moisture. This cooling triggers condensation, forming clouds and precipitation. The greatest rainfall occurs on this windward side where the rising air first encounters the mountain. After passing over the mountain, the descending air on the opposite (leewarside warms and becomes drier, creating a rain shadow effect with significantly reduced precipitation. This process is called orographic precipitation or orographic lifting.

    Practice Next