Question

a city planner is designing a new development on the eastern side of a mountain range. based on the rain shadow effect discussed in class, what should they expect regarding precipitation patterns compared to the western side?
the eastern side will experience more frequent but lighter rainfall events
the eastern side will receive significantly less rainfall, potentially up to 10 times less
the eastern side will receive significantly more rainfall due to mountain uplift
the eastern side will receive approximately the same amount of rainfall as the western side
an environmental scientist is studying how las vegas transformed from desert to major city in 100 years. this example best demonstrates which concept about environmental factors?
urban development always improves local environmental conditions

Explanation:

The rain - shadow effect occurs when moist air is forced to rise over a mountain range. As it rises, it cools and condenses, releasing precipitation on the wind - ward (western in this case) side. By the time the air reaches the leeward (eastern) side, it is dry, resulting in significantly less rainfall. For the second question, urban development doesn't always improve local environmental conditions. Las Vegas' transformation shows human impact on the environment, often altering natural environmental factors for development purposes.

Answer:

The eastern side will receive significantly less rainfall, potentially up to 10 times less
Urban development can have a major impact on environmental factors