Why is equatorial Africa wetter in the west than the east?

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FAQs

Question 1: Why is equatorial Africa wetter in the west than the east?

Equatorial Africa is wetter in the west than the east due to the presence of the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) and the influence of the prevailing wind patterns.

Question 2: What is the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ)?

The Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) is a low-pressure belt that encircles the Earth near the equator. It is characterized by the convergence of trade winds from the northern and southern hemispheres, resulting in upward motion and abundant rainfall.

Question 3: How does the ITCZ affect the rainfall in equatorial Africa?

The ITCZ plays a crucial role in determining the rainfall patterns in equatorial Africa. As the ITCZ shifts north or south throughout the year, it brings heavy rainfall to the regions it passes over. In the case of equatorial Africa, the ITCZ is positioned slightly north of the equator, resulting in more rainfall in the western part of the region.

Question 4: What are the prevailing wind patterns in equatorial Africa?

In equatorial Africa, the prevailing wind patterns are the northeast and southeast trade winds. These winds blow from the northeast in the northern hemisphere and from the southeast in the southern hemisphere. They converge near the equator, where they contribute to the formation of the ITCZ.

Question 5: How do the prevailing wind patterns influence the rainfall distribution in equatorial Africa?

The prevailing wind patterns help transport moisture from the Atlantic Ocean toward equatorial Africa. The southeast trade winds bring moisture to the eastern part of the region, but as the winds converge and rise near the ITCZ, the moisture is carried westward, resulting in higher rainfall in the western areas.