Which of the following types of rainfall occurs when the saturated air mass encounters a mountain and the air is forced to rise?

Geography ·Previously asked in JKSSB Sub Inspector (Executive) 2022

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Question

Which of the following types of rainfall occurs when the saturated air mass encounters a mountain and the air is forced to rise?

  1. A. Frontal rainfall
  2. B. Convectional rainfall
  3. C. Cyclonic rainfall
  4. D. Orographic rainfall (Correct answer)

Correct Answer

Option D — Orographic rainfall

Detailed Solution & Explanation

The correct answer is Orographic rainfall.

Key Points

  • Orographic rainfall (also called relief rainfall) occurs when a moisture-laden air mass is forced to rise over a mountain range or elevated terrain.
  • As the air rises, it cools adiabatically, water vapour condenses, and precipitation falls on the windward (facing the wind) side of the mountain.
  • The leeward side (rain shadow) remains dry.
  • Frontal rainfall occurs at weather fronts; convectional rainfall occurs when heated air rises rapidly; cyclonic rainfall is associated with cyclones.