The uneven pattern of rain caused by wind and mountains is called the rain shadow effect.
The dry area on one side of the mountain is called a rain shadow.
A shadow is a dark area or shape produced by an object coming between rays of light and a surface (blocking light).
Question 1
1.
Based on the definition of shadow, make a connection - how do you think a rain shadow got its name?
(A shadow is an area blocking light, what do you think is a rain shadow?)
Question 2
2.
When liquid water falls as rain, what happens to the water remaining in the atmosphere?
Rain Shadow Model
GOAL: Show what happens to water in the atmosphere when wind blows towards a mountain.
Click on the link to get to the rain shadow model: https://apps.learning.amplify.com/modelingtool/#/tool/175/level/42_Rain_Shadow_id_2969
Directions - Read the directions and watch the video below to help you make the model
Question 3
3.
When the wind blows toward a mountain, what happens to the water vapor molecules? (Think about where and what direction the mountain pushes the water vapor)
Sentence starter: The wind and mountain push the water vapor ___________________
Question 4
4.
What happens to the water vapor higher in the atmosphere?
The water vapor ________________
Question 5
5.
What phase of matter are the water molecules in a cloud?
Question 6
6.
How does a raindrop form? Use the words water vapor and codense (condensation) in your answer.
Sentence starter: A raindrop forms when ___________________
Question 7
7.
What phase (of matter) is a raindrop?
Question 8
8.
What could happen after it rains? Think about the steps in the water cycle and the different phase changes.
Question 9
9.
What side of Ferris Island is experiencing a rain shadow (dry area on one side of the mountain) - East Ferris or West Ferris?
TIBETAN PLATEAU
The Tibetan Plateau is a large area in Asia often referred to as “the Roof of the World.”
Question 10
10.
Which side of Tibet is getting more rain?
Question 11
11.
Which side of Tibet is experiencing the rain shadow effect? How do you know?
Question 12
12.
We know that the water vapor in the air comes from liquid water that has evaporated. Where does water vapor come from in this landscape?
Sentence Starter: The water vapor comes from the _______________________
Question 13
13.
Draw an arrow on the TIBETAN PLATEAU model to show the direction you think the wind is blowing.
Question 14
14.
Which image best shows how condensation, wind (the red arrow), and evaporation causes the rain shadow effect on the Plateau?
