What does the Orographic Effect state about the relationship between air temperature and moisture-holding capacity?

• A. Cooler air holds more moisture than warmer air
• B. Cooler air holds less moisture than warmer air
• C. Temperature has no effect on moisture capacity
• D. Warmer air holds less moisture than cooler air

Answer: (B)

Air temperature determines how much moisture air can hold before it becomes saturated. Warmer air has a higher moisture-holding capacity than cooler air, because increased energy allows more water vapor to be suspended. In mountains, air rising over terrain cools and its capacity to hold moisture decreases, leading to condensation and rain on the windward side; as air descends and warms on the leeward side, its capacity increases, making the air drier. That makes the statement cooler air holds less moisture than warmer air the correct way to express the relationship. The other options flip the relationship or say temperature has no effect.