### Different Climates

#### Directions: Complete the table below using your knowledge of elevation and weather variables.

\begin{tabular}{|c|c|c|c|c|}
\hline
Location & Side of Mountain & How does the elevation change? & How does the temperature change? & How does the air pressure change? \\
\hline
A [tex]$\rightarrow$[/tex] B & Windward & & & \\
\hline
B [tex]$\rightarrow$[/tex] C & Leeward & & & \\
\hline
\end{tabular}

Question: Which side of the mountain (windward or leeward) would you expect to experience bad weather/storms? Support your answer.

I believe I would be more likely to experience bad weather/storms on the (windward/leeward) side of the mountain because ________.



Answer :

You would be more likely to experience bad weather or storms on the windward side of the mountain because of the following reasons:

1. Moisture Intake: The windward side of the mountain faces the direction from which the wind is coming. As the moist air is forced to ascend the mountain slope, it cools down.

2. Cooling and Condensation: As the air rises, it expands and cools due to the decrease in air pressure with elevation. Cooler air can hold less moisture, which results in the condensation of water vapor into clouds and precipitation.

3. Precipitation: The condensation process leads to cloud formation and often causes precipitation (rain, snow, etc.). This is why the windward side of the mountain tends to be wetter and experiences more frequent and intense weather events, including storms.

In contrast, the leeward side typically experiences a rain shadow effect where the descending air becomes warmer and drier, leading to less precipitation and generally calmer weather conditions. This side is often more arid and has less vegetation compared to the windward side.

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