In the state of Washington, the western portion of the state receives far more rainfall than the eastern portion of the state. What accounts for this stark contrast?
A) The western portion of the state see a great deal of frontal lifting, while the eastern portion is under a high pressure cell.
B) The western portion of the state experiences orographic precipitation, while the eastern portion is in the rain shadow.
C) The western portion of the state has much more moderate temperatures due to the maritime effect and, therefore, experiences convectional uplift, while the eastern portion is governed by continentality.
D) The western potion of the state is under the ITCZ during the summer and experiences convergent uplift, while the eastern portion is under the Azores High and experiences subsiding air.

Question

In the state of Washington, the western portion of the state receives far more rainfall than the eastern portion of the state. What accounts for this stark contrast?
A) The western portion of the state see a great deal of frontal lifting, while the eastern portion is under a high pressure cell. 
B) The western portion of the state experiences orographic precipitation, while the eastern portion is in the rain shadow. 
C) The western portion of the state has much more moderate temperatures due to the maritime effect and, therefore, experiences convectional uplift, while the eastern portion is governed by continentality. 
D) The western potion of the state is under the ITCZ during the summer and experiences convergent uplift, while the eastern portion is under the Azores High and experiences subsiding air.

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The western portion of the state experiences orographic precipitation due to the prevailing winds carrying moist ocean air inland and the air being forced to rise over mountain ranges, leading to increased rainfall. In contrast, the eastern portion is in the rain shadow of the mountains, where descending air absorbs moisture and creates arid conditions.

In the State of Washington, the Western Portion of the State