UPSC 2013 Mains GS1 Model Answer - Major hot deserts in the northern hemisphere are located between 20-30 degrees north and on the western side of the continents. Why?
MA
•Mayuri
Feb, 2025
•1 min read
Q21. Major hot deserts in the northern hemisphere are located between 20-30 degrees north and on the western side of the continents. Why?
Model Answer:
Introduction
Hot deserts in the Northern Hemisphere predominantly lie between 20-30 degrees north latitude. This pattern results from climatic, geographical, and oceanic influences shaping desert environments.
Body
Factors behind the location of hot deserts
- Subtropical High Pressure: The majority of Northern Hemisphere deserts form in subtropical high-pressure zones, where descending air creates arid conditions, inhibiting cloud formation and precipitation.
- Trade Winds: The northeast trade winds diverge at the subtropics, contributing to the arid climate by promoting dry conditions as they descend, reinforcing desert formation.
- Continental Positioning: Major deserts are situated on the western sides of continents, where cold ocean currents limit moisture supply, further enhancing aridity and supporting desert ecosystems.
- Rain Shadow Effect: Mountain ranges near deserts trap moisture-laden winds, causing them to lose precipitation, thus creating dry rain shadow areas conducive to desert climates.
- Solar Radiation: Regions between 20-30 degrees north receive intense solar radiation, elevating surface temperatures and contributing to evaporation, which reduces moisture availability and fosters arid conditions.
Conclusion
The location of hot deserts in the Northern Hemisphere results from a combination of atmospheric circulation, oceanic influences, and geographical features that together create arid environments.
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