MasteryExams
Geography • Physical GeographyMedium

In climatology, what is the term used to describe a local wind that blows downslope from high elevations to lower valleys, often driven by radiational cooling of mountain slopes at night?

A. Anabatic wind
B. Katabatic wind✓ Correct Answer
C. Foehn wind
D. Chinook wind

💡 Solution & Explanation

Katabatic winds are local gravity-driven winds that carry dense, cold air downslope from high mountain elevations to lower valleys, typically occurring at night due to the rapid radiational cooling of elevated slopes. Conversely, anabatic winds flow upslope during daytime heating, while Foehn and Chinook represent warm, dry regional winds descending on the leeward sides of mountain ranges.

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