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← GeographyWhich mechanism causes orographic lifting leading to rain shadow formation on mountain?
A)Adiabatic expansion cools air on windward side✓
B)Coriolis effect deflects regional airflows
C)Radiation balance heats leeward slopes unevenly
D)Albedo contrast creates localized pressure gradients
💡 Explanation
When air masses encounter a mountain, orographic lifting occurs because they are forced to rise, causing adiabatic expansion. Adiabatic expansion cools the air causing moisture to condense and precipitate on the windward side. Therefore air dries as it passes over the peak, creating a rain shadow rather than alternative climate modifications.
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