Multiple choice

Why are the western slopes of the Western Ghats covered with thicker forests than the eastern slopes?

  1. Due to less rainfall

  2. Due to heavy rainfall

  3. Due to human aid provided to the forests

  4. Due to the longer duration of sunlight

Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
B Correct answer
Explanation

The western slopes of the Western Ghats receive significantly heavier rainfall from the southwest monsoon winds than the eastern slopes. This orographic rainfall occurs when moisture-laden air from the Arabian Sea is forced upward by the mountain barrier, cooling and condensing on the windward (western) side. The eastern slopes lie in the rain shadow area and receive much less precipitation.