As the duration of a storm increases, what happens to rainfall intensity?

• A. It increases
• B. It decreases
• C. It remains stable
• D. It fluctuates

Answer: (B)

The correct answer indicates that as the duration of a storm increases, rainfall intensity typically decreases. This trend can be understood by considering the nature of storms and how they develop. When a storm begins, the initial precipitation is often the most intense. This is due to the presence of feeder clouds and upward motion that contribute to heavy rainfall.

However, as the storm persists, the mechanisms that maintain high intensity, such as moisture influx and thermal dynamics, may diminish or redistribute. Widespread rainfall can lead to a gradual decrease in intensity as the storm matures, in part because the air becomes saturated and the capacity for additional rainfall decreases. Eventually, the storm may transition to lighter rain or drizzle, especially in prolonged events.

Factors such as atmospheric pressure systems and the availability of moisture can also play a role in this decrease in intensity over longer durations. Overall, the pattern of initial heavy rain followed by reduced intensity reflects the typical life cycle of storms and their capability to produce precipitation over time.