Relief rainfall is common around the

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks where relief (orographic) rainfall is common. The key word is "relief," which refers to the physical height and shape of the land.

Step 2: Explain the concept Relief rainfall forms in these stages:

1. Warm, moist air (for example, from the Atlantic Ocean) blows toward a mountain or highland.
2. The air is forced to rise up the windward slope.
3. As it rises, it cools, and the water vapour condenses into clouds.
4. Heavy rain falls on the windward side.
5. The leeward side gets little rain because the air descends and warms. This dry area is called the rain shadow.

Step 3: Evaluate the options

• A. Lowland areas: These have no high barrier to force air upward, so relief rain is not typical there.
• B. Peneplains: A peneplain is a nearly flat surface worn down by erosion. There is no significant obstacle to lift the air.
• C. Highland areas: Mountains and plateaus force moist air to rise, cool, and condense. This is correct.
• D. Sahara Desert: This is a hot, dry region with little moisture. It is known for aridity, not relief rainfall.

Step 4: Answer Relief rainfall is common around highland areas, which is option C.

Nigerian example: The Jos Plateau and the Obudu Plateau receive more rainfall than the surrounding lowlands because of their elevation. The windward slopes of the Cameroon highlands are also very wet.

Exam tip: Link "relief" with "height." Whenever you see relief or orographic rainfall, think of mountains, highlands, and windward slopes. Convectional rain goes with hot equatorial lowlands, and frontal rain goes with the meeting of air masses.