Lesson 2b - The Three Types of Rainfall

Question 1

What are the three types of rainfall?

Answer 1

• Convectional rainfall
• Cyclonic rainfall
• Orographic rainfall

Question 2

Where is convectional rainfall common?

Answer 2

Convectional rainfall is common in tropical areas and in the UK during the summer.

Question 3

Describe the formation of convectional rainfall?

Answer 3

• When the land becomes hot, the air above it becomes warmer, expands and rises
• As it rises, the air cools and its ability to hold water vapour decreases
• Condensation occurs and clouds develop
• If the air continues to rise, rain will fall

Question 4

Describe the formation of cyclonic rainfall?

Answer 4

• Cyclonic rainfall happens when warm air, which is lighter and less dense, is forced to rise over cold, denser air
• As it rises, the air cools and its ability to hold water vapour decreases
• Condensation occurs and clouds and rain form

Question 5

Describe the formation of orographic rainfall?

Answer 5

When air is forced to rise over a barrier, such as a mountain, it cools and condensation takes place forming rain. The leeward (downwind) slope receives relatively little rain, which is known as the rain shadow effect.