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♻️ap environmental science review

Rain Shadow Effect in AP Environmental Science

Verified for the 2027 exam
Verified for the 2027 exam•Fiveable Content Team

Definition

The rain shadow effect occurs when a mountain range blocks prevailing moisture-laden winds, causing one side of the mountain to be relatively dry while the other side receives abundant rainfall.

This definition is part of Fiveable's AP Environmental Science review, which also has guided practice questions.

AP course connection

Topic 4.8: Earth's Geography and Climate

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Unit 4

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Rain Shadow Effect cheat sheet

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