Deserts Near the Tropics: What’s the Connection?
Why Are Deserts Usually Found Near the Tropics?
The Tropics are equatorial regions on Earth, characterized by a high level of solar radiation and consistent temperatures. Deserts, being areas with low precipitation and high evaporation, often thrive in these regions due to specific atmospheric conditions. However, this is not an absolute rule, as deserts can also be found in other latitudes. This article aims to explore the connection between deserts and the Tropics, addressing common misconceptions and shedding light on the diverse locations of deserts across the globe.
Introduction to Deserts and Tropics
Deserts are defined as areas where the annual precipitation is significantly lower than the evaporation rate. This creates a very dry environment, often characterized by sparse vegetation and even sparse life forms. Tropics, on the other hand, are located at and around the Earth's equator, where the sun is directly overhead at various times during the year, leading to consistent high temperatures and high humidity.
Why Are Deserts Exclusively Found in Tropical and Subtropical Regions?
Most of the world's hot deserts are found in tropical and subtropical regions due to the strong seasonal weather patterns and the presence of the subtropical high-pressure belts. These belts, along with ocean currents like the Gulf Stream, contribute to the dry conditions that favor desert formation.
Hottest Deserts
Hot deserts are known for their extreme temperatures. The Sahara Desert in North Africa and the Mojave Desert in the United States are prime examples. Both these deserts are located in the tropics, with the Sahara being on the Tropic of Cancer, and the Mojave providing a desert climate in a temperate zone.
Cold Deserts Are Also Found in High Latitudes
Not all deserts are hot. Cold deserts, such as the Gobi Desert in Asia and the Antarctic Desert in the Southern Hemisphere, can be found in higher latitudes. The Antarctic Desert, for instance, is the largest and coldest desert on the planet, stretching over the entire continent.
Examples of Cold Deserts
High-latitude deserts include the Patagonian Desert in South America, which stretches south of the Tropic of Capricorn, and the Coquille Desert in Canada, which is an ice desert. Even some parts of Antarctica are classified as deserts due to their extremely low precipitation levels.
The Geography of Deserts
Geographic influences, such as mountain ranges, can also contribute to the formation of deserts. These landforms create rain shadows, where the wind blows away from the mountains, causing the air to dry out, leading to arid conditions. For example, the Andes Mountains in South America are a significant factor in the creation of the Patagonian Desert.
Exceptions: Deserts Not Necessarily Near the Tropics
While many deserts are found near the Tropics, it is important to note that deserts can exist at various latitudes. The Antarctic and Arctic deserts, for instance, are located far from the Tropics. The high Arctic regions of Canada and the deserts of interior Antarctica are classified as cold deserts due to their extremely low precipitation and very cold temperatures.
Additionally, the largest desert in the world, the Sahara Desert, is on the Tropic of Cancer, while the Namib Desert, located on the Tropic of Capricorn, and the Thar Desert in India, located north of the Tropic of Cancer, also serve as excellent examples of how deserts can vary in location and climate.
Conclusion
In summary, while deserts are often found near the Tropics due to the strong seasonal weather patterns and subtropical high-pressure belts, it is inaccurate to say that all deserts are located there. Deserts can also be found in high-latitude regions, influenced by geographic factors such as mountain ranges and ocean currents. Understanding these factors helps in comprehending the complex and diverse nature of deserts across the globe.