Article Content
**What Is A Desert And Some Of Its Characteristics? – Featured Articles**
====================================================================================
**What is a desert?**
A desert is a type of ecosystem characterized by low precipitation and limited vegetation growth due to the intense solar radiation, strong winds, and low humidity levels. Deserts are often formed when the climate has been altered for millions of years through geological processes such as volcanic activity or sea-level changes. The main factors that contribute to the formation of deserts include the distance from large bodies of water, the presence of high mountains, and the prevailing wind patterns.
**Characteristics of a desert**
Deserts have several distinct characteristics that set them apart from other types of ecosystems. One of the most notable features is their arid conditions, which are characterized by low humidity levels (less than 20%) and limited rainfall. Deserts also tend to be very hot during the day, with temperatures often reaching extreme highs. At night, temperatures can drop significantly, making it essential for desert creatures to find ways to conserve energy.
Another characteristic of deserts is their lack of vegetation growth. This is due to the intense solar radiation, which scatters and absorbs most of the sun's energy, preventing plants from photosynthesizing and growing. As a result, deserts are often devoid of trees, shrubs, and other types of vegetation that are typically found in more temperate climates.
**Examples of desert ecosystems**
Some examples of desert ecosystems include the Sahara Desert in Africa, the Mojave Desert in North America, and the Atacama Desert in South America. Each of these regions has its unique characteristics and features, but they all share the common trait of being extremely hot and dry.
**Conclusion**
In conclusion, deserts are complex and fascinating ecosystems that have evolved to thrive in one of the harshest environments on Earth. Understanding the definition and characteristics of a desert is essential for appreciating the diversity of life on our planet and for developing effective strategies for conservation and management of these ecosystems.
**Reference:**
http://publish.lycos.com/featuredarticles/2021/08/10/what-is-a-desert-and-some-of-its-characteristics/
http://publish.lycos.com/featuredarticles/2021/08/10/what-is-a-desert-and-some-of-its-characteristics/