What characterizes a rain shadow?

A rain shadow is characterized as an area that receives less precipitation because it is located on the leeward side of a mountain range. This phenomenon occurs due to the orographic effect, where moist air ascends the windward side of the mountains, cools, and loses moisture in the form of precipitation. As the air descends on the leeward side, it warms up and becomes capable of holding more moisture, resulting in significantly drier conditions and lower precipitation levels. This can lead to the formation of distinct ecological zones, often creating arid or semi-arid landscapes in what becomes the rain shadow region.

Understanding this concept is crucial, as it illustrates the relationship between topography and climate, which affects local ecosystems and agriculture. The other choices do not accurately describe this specific meteorological effect or are unrelated to the concept of a rain shadow.