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Chapter 10: Problem 5

Why do different regions receive different amounts of precipitation?

Short Answer

Expert verified
Different regions receive different amounts of precipitation due to various factors like global weather patterns, topographic features, influence of ocean currents, and the distance from the sea. Regions near the equator, mountains, or the sea tend to get more rain, while those in the rain shadow of mountains or far from the sea get less.

Step by step solution

01

Explanation of Global Weather Patterns

Global weather patterns play a crucial role in determining the amount of precipitation. For instance, areas near the equator typically get more rain because the warm air rises, leading to condensation and rainfall. The Intertropical Convergence Zone, a region near the equator with most rain, is a perfect example.
02

Influence of Topographic Features

Mountains significantly influence rainfall patterns. When an air mass meets a mountain range, it rises, and as the air mass rises, it cools, and can no longer hold as much moisture, resulting in precipitation. This is referred to as orographic rainfall. The side of the mountain where the wind comes from is called windward side, which gets more rain. The other side, lee side, gets less rain and is often referred to as a rain shadow.
03

Effect of Ocean Currents

Ocean currents regulate regional climates because they distribute heat from the equator to the poles. Warm ocean currents heat the air above them and can cause this warmed, moist air to rise and form clouds, leading to precipitation. Cold ocean currents, however, can cause drier climates.
04

Impact of Distance from the Sea

Areas near the sea typically get more precipitation because they can draw moisture from the ocean. In contrast, Inland areas, especially those far from the sea, often have less rainfall because the air has less moisture to condense into rainfall.

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