Analysis of Rainfall Patterns in Figure 3.2

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What is the term for precipitation caused by air being lifted over high topographic surfaces?

Frontal precipitation
Orographic precipitation (correct)
Convectional precipitation
Cyclonic precipitation

Which side of mountain ranges in the United States typically receives more precipitation due to orographic lifting?

West (correct)
South
East
North

What contributes to arid conditions prevailing on the downwind side of high topographic surfaces after the air mass has moved over them?

Increased humidity
High pressure system
Dry air mass (correct)
Decreased wind speed

What is the main factor influencing the size distribution of raindrops in a storm?

Rainfall intensity (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following factors can cause falling raindrops to deviate from a spherical shape?

Pressure difference and air resistance (B) Signup and view all the answers

What effect does the diameter of raindrops have on their stability while falling through the air?

Larger raindrops are more stable (D) Signup and view all the answers

What method is used to measure snowfall in mountainous areas?

Aerial snow surveys with depth gauges (C) Signup and view all the answers

How are snow courses samples collected for measurement?

Using specially designed tubes that sample complete snow depth (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is a common error in nonrecording rain gauges when measuring precipitation?

Water creeping up on the measuring stick (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the corrections needed for evaporation in rainfall measurement?

Approximately 2% correction for evaporation (B) Signup and view all the answers

How do aerial snow surveys help in predicting runoff amounts?

By comparing equivalent water depth with observed runoff (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of setting up depth-measuring equipment on snow ranges?

To help watershed managers make predictions of runoff (C) Signup and view all the answers

What causes the highest rainfall in the western mountains?

Initial rise of the air over the western mountains (D) Signup and view all the answers

Why is lower annual rainfall generally observed as air moves down the mountain slopes?

Dry air rising to higher elevations (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which factor contributes to increased rainfall toward the eastern boundary of the United States?

Increased moisture along the Atlantic Ocean (A) Signup and view all the answers

Why are funnel-shaped hoods inserted in rain gauges?

To minimize evaporation losses (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is a common problem associated with rainfall measurements using rain gauges?

Presence of nearby vegetation and buildings (D) Signup and view all the answers

How are rain gauges classified based on their functionality?

Based on recording capabilities (B) Signup and view all the answers