The Rain Shadow Effect

Front

What is a rain shadow?

Back

A patch of land that has become a desert due to blocked rainfall.

Front

What is the average annual precipitation required for an area to be considered a desert?

Back

Less than 10 inches.

Front

Which famous desert is located in the rain shadow of the Sierra Nevada mountain range?

Back

Death Valley.

Front

What are the conditions on the leeward side of a mountain?

Back

It is warm and dry.

Front

What are the conditions on the windward side of a mountain?

Back

It is wet and cool.

Front

What causes the rain shadow effect?

Back

Mountains block moist air from reaching the leeward side, causing precipitation on the windward side.

Front

What is the windward side of a mountain?

Back

The side facing the wind, where air rises and cools, leading to precipitation.

Front

What is the leeward side of a mountain?

Back

The side sheltered from the wind, often experiencing dry conditions.

Front

How do deserts form in rain shadow areas?

Back

Deserts form when the leeward side of a mountain receives little to no rainfall.

Front

What role do mountains play in the rain shadow effect?

Back

Mountains act as barriers that block moist air, creating different climates on either side.