Earth’s largest rain shadow occurs in south Asia, where northward-directed winds encounter the Himalayan mountains. Which of the following statements about this rain shadow is correct?

• A. Areas to the north and the south of the Himalayas have a drastically different climate.
• B. The area north of the Himalayas does not get a lot of rainfall & is a desert.
• C. As air moves northward over the Himalayas, moisture condenses & precipitates on the windward side.
• D. All of the above.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of a rain shadow: A rain shadow is a dry area on the leeward side of a mountainous area. Mountains block the passage of rain-producing weather systems and cast a 'shadow' of dryness behind them.
2. Identify the windward and leeward sides: The windward side of a mountain is the side that faces the incoming wind and receives more precipitation. The leeward side is sheltered from the wind and receives less precipitation.
3. Apply the concept to the Himalayas: In the case of the Himalayas, the northward-directed winds carry moisture. As these winds rise over the mountains, the air cools, and moisture condenses, leading to precipitation on the windward side (southern side).
4. Examine the climate differences: The southern side of the Himalayas receives significant rainfall, supporting lush vegetation, while the northern side, being in the rain shadow, receives much less rainfall and is more arid, often resulting in desert conditions.
5. Evaluate the statements: All the given statements are correct as they describe the climatic differences and the process of precipitation on the windward side, leading to a rain shadow effect on the leeward side.