What describes the leeward side of a mountain?

Study for the Earth Science Regents Exam. Dive into flashcards and multiple-choice questions, complete with hints and explanations. Prepare confidently for your exam!

The leeward side of a mountain, often referred to as the rain shadow region, typically experiences conditions that are dry and warm. This phenomenon occurs because as moist air rises over the mountain range, it cools and condenses, leading to precipitation on the windward side. By the time the air descends on the leeward side, it has lost much of its moisture, resulting in drier conditions. The descending air also compresses and warms, leading to a further increase in temperatures. Therefore, the characteristics of the leeward side are defined by reduced humidity and elevated temperatures, which align with the description of being dry and warm.

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