Orographic Lifting

Question

Orographic lifting
A) Deflects the flow of air to the west
B) Causes a zone of intertropical convergence called the Doldrums
C) Alters the path of the solar equator
D) Produces rain on the windward sides of mountains
E) Causes seasonal variation in the path of the ITCZ

Accepted Answer

Orographic lifting occurs when an air mass is forced from a low elevation to a higher elevation as it moves over rising terrain. As the air mass ascends, it cools down and loses its capacity to hold moisture, leading to condensation and precipitation. This process is responsible for producing rain on the windward sides of mountains, where the air climbs up the terrain, cools, and releases moisture in the form of rain or snow.