What are the key characteristics of orographic depressions?

Orographic depressions are primarily associated with the interaction between topography and atmospheric conditions, particularly wind patterns. When moist air encounters a mountain range, it is forced to rise, leading to cooling and condensation on the windward side, which typically results in cloud formation and precipitation.

The correct answer highlights that for orographic depressions to form, there needs to be a significant mountain range and winds that approach the mountains at a right angle. This orientation is essential because it maximizes the lift of the moist air over the mountains, enhancing the cooling and the resulting weather phenomena, such as clouds and precipitation.

In contrast, while high pressure can build on the leeward side of a mountain range due to descending air after it has crossed the peaks, this is usually tied to the rain shadow effect and not directly indicative of the characteristics of an orographic depression itself. The statement about low pressure on the windward side is somewhat connected but doesn't encapsulate the concept fully, as the formation of orographic depressions is primarily associated with the vertical movement of air and the cooling that occurs during this ascent. Lastly, convection currents are related to different atmospheric processes, and while they can occur in various terrains, they don’t directly describe the formation of or