What is rainfall? How many types of rainfall are there? Write in detail with illustrations.
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Solution
Instructions:
Define rain.
Explain the types of rainfall with diagrams.
Solution:
Rainfall is one of the most common forms of precipitation we observe globally.
On the basis of its origin, rainfall can be classified into convectional, orogenic, and cyclonic rainfall.
Types of rainfall:
Convectional rainfall:
The earth’s surface gets heated and heats the moist air over it. This air rises into the atmosphere, cools down and condenses to form clouds, resulting in rain.
Globally, convectional rain takes place in equatorial regions.
Orogenic rainfall:2
Orographic rainfall occurs when the rain-bearing clouds from the sea reach the land and move upwards along the mountain slopes. The upward ascension of clouds causes them to cool down, condense, and rain.
Rainfall occurs on the windward side of the mountain. The rainfall on the other side of the mountain is very low. This region is called the leeward side.
In India, the Western Ghats experience orographic rainfall.
Cyclonic rainfall:
A cyclone is a specific air formation when the pressure in an area is less than the surrounding regions.
Air from the surrounding region comes toward the centre of the cyclone and starts moving upwards.
As it rises, the temperature of the air reduces, condensation occurs, and rainfall occurs.