Question

What effect does mountain uplift have on weather patterns, specifically in terms of precipitation?

A. Mountains cause a decrease in precipitation due to their barrier-like nature.
B. Mountains uplift results in increased precipitation due to the cooling of moist air.
C. Mountains have no impact on weather patterns or precipitation.
D. Mountains only affect temperature and not precipitation.

Answer 1

Mountain uplift has a significant effect on weather patterns, specifically in terms of precipitation. It can result in a decrease in precipitation on the leeward side due to the rain shadow effect.

Step-by-step explanation:

The uplift of mountains has a significant effect on weather patterns, especially in terms of precipitation. Mountain ranges can cause a decrease in precipitation on the leeward side due to a phenomenon called the 'rain shadow' effect. As moist air from the ocean rises and cools over the mountains, it condenses and releases precipitation on the windward side. On the leeward side, the air becomes dry, resulting in little precipitation. This creates a rain shadow and causes the region to have a more arid climate.