Question

question 17 of 25
which of the following is the most likely reason the weather is very dry in the area east of seattle?
a. the winds over the ocean blow from east to west.
b. the columbia river carries the water away.
c. cold dry air moves south into the state from canada.
d. the mountains to the west create a rain barrier.

Explanation:

The rain shadow effect occurs when moist air from the ocean rises over mountains, cools, and loses moisture (rain) on the windward side. The leeward side (east in this case) gets dry air as the mountains act as a barrier. Option A is incorrect as winds over the ocean typically blow west - to - east in many temperate regions. Option B, the Columbia River, is a result of water flow but not the cause of dryness. Option C, cold dry air from Canada, is not the main reason for the local dryness east of Seattle compared to the rain - shadow effect.

Answer:

D. The mountains to the west create a rain barrier.