The western coasts of continents in the subtropical zones are in ________ precipitation zones.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The western coasts of continents in subtropical zones, like California in the United States, are in arid precipitation zones because they are in the rainshadow of coastal mountains. As moist air from the ocean rises and cools, it releases precipitation on the windward side of the mountains. By the time the air reaches the leeward side, it has lost most of its moisture, resulting in arid or desert conditions.

The Western Coasts of Continents in the Subtropical Zones Are