Rainfall
Rainfall
Rainfall (/ˈreɪnfɔːl/), from the Old English rēn and fall, is a meteorological term that refers to the amount of liquid water in the form of droplets that have condensed from atmospheric water vapor and then become heavy enough to fall under gravity.
Etymology
The term "rainfall" is derived from the Old English words rēn meaning "rain" and fall meaning "a falling". It has been in use since the late 14th century.
Measurement
Rainfall is typically measured using a rain gauge. It is usually expressed in inches or millimeters (mm), measured over a 24-hour period.
Types of Rainfall
There are three main types of rainfall: convectional rainfall, orographic rainfall, and frontal rainfall.
- Convectional rainfall occurs when the sun's energy heats the surface of the Earth, causing water to evaporate and form clouds. When the cloud particles become too heavy to remain suspended in the cloud, they fall as rain.
- Orographic rainfall is caused by air masses that are forced to rise over mountainous areas. As the air rises, it cools and condenses, forming clouds and rain.
- Frontal rainfall occurs when two different air masses meet. The warmer air is forced to rise over the cooler air, causing it to cool and condense, forming rain.
Effects of Rainfall
Rainfall has a significant impact on the environment and human society. It is a key component of the water cycle, and it plays a crucial role in the distribution of water resources. It affects agriculture, as it is necessary for the growth of crops. However, excessive rainfall can lead to flooding, which can cause damage to property and loss of life.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Rainfall
- Wikipedia's article - Rainfall
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