We learned that when a mountain range is exposed to prevailing winds from a part

Question

We learned that when a mountain range is exposed to prevailing winds from a particular direction, the windward side of the range (the side facing the prevailing winds) receives more precipitation than the leeward side (the side facing away from the prevailing winds) because of a rain shadow. However, the sea-level lowlands on the leeward side of the range also tend to be much drier than areas at similar elevation to the windward side of the range. Why does this happen? Note that air masses become cooler as they move uphill and reheat as they move downhill. 3)

Explanation / Answer

When the winds flow uphills it becomes cooler which as a result of adiabatic cooling. This cool wind is denser that results in formation of clouds which eventually results in precipitation. As the precipitation falls on the same side of the windward side of the mountain, that side receives more rainfall and thus the sea level rises up. On the other hand, as this cool air moves to the other side of the mountain, it moves downhill and as a result of which becomes warm. This in turn results in low precipitation and lower sea levels on the leeward side of the mountain.

Windward side, air moves up air cools, air is dense and cloud forms leading to higher precipitation and sea levels. Leeward side, air moves down, becomes warmer, no clouds, no rain, drier climate, low sea levels.

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