Water Cycle

Question 1

Convectional rainfall

Answer 1

This type of rainfall is common in tropical regions and the UK in summer. When the land becomes hot, the air above it becomes warmer, expands and rises. As it rises it cools and its ability to hold water vapour decreases. Condensation occurs and clouds develop. If the air continues to rise, rain will fall.

Question 2

Cyclonic rainfall

Answer 2

This happens when warm air, which is lighter and less dense, is forced to rise over cold, dense air. As it rises, the air cools and it can’t hold water vapour. Condensation occurs and clouds form.

Question 3

Orographic rainfall

Answer 3

when air is forced to rise over a barrier, such as a mountain, it cools and condensation takes place forming rain. The downwind slope receives relatively little rain, which is known as the rain shadow effect.