Problem 4 - Biology: The Dynamic Science

Question

The term "rain shadow" describes the: a. low rainfall that is typical on the leeward side of mountains. b. low rainfall that is typical at \(30^{\circ}\) latitude. c. high rainfall that is typical on the windward side of mountains. d. blocking of rain by vegetation in dense tropical forests. low rainfall that is typical in the interior of continents.

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

The term 'rain shadow' describes the 'low rainfall that is typical on the leeward side of mountains', hence, the correct option is a.

Step 1: Identify the Definition of Rain Shadow

The rain shadow effect occurs when air moves over a high mountainous area. The air risen, cools and loses its capacity to hold water. Hence, it precipitates on the windward side (the side the wind hits first). As it descends on the leeward side, it gets warmer, its capacity to hold water increases and it takes up moisture, this results in low rainfall.

Step 2: Match the Definition to the Choices Given

Looking at the choices given in the question, a. refers to the low rainfall typical on the leeward side of mountains, which matches perfectly with the definition of a rain shadow.

Step 3: Eliminate Incorrect Choices

Looking at the other choices: b. refers to low rainfall at a specific latitude, which doesn't fit with our definition of rainfall varying due to geographical location. c. is incorrect because it says high rainfall is common on the windward side. While this is true, it's not the definition of 'rain shadow'. d. and e. are also incorrect for similar reasons, they do not specifically describe a 'rain shadow'.