Desert formation
Most deserts in the world developed in the sub-tropical high pressure belts, 20˚ - 30˚ north and south latitudes. Descending air is dominant over these pressure belts, thus rain forming processes can’t occur easily. Dry, warm days with clear skies are typical for these regions. Various other factors also contribute to the development of deserts.
These factors can be –
1. Latitude location
2. West coasts of continents
3. Mountain ranges
4. Distance from oceans
1. Latitude:
As already discussed deserts are commonly found in high pressure belts where descending air is dominant.
2. West coasts:
Cold currents are flowing along west coasts of continents. The air above these currents will be dry. Therefore very little moisture will reach the coast with little rainfall.
3. Mountain ranges:
Mountain ranges which are parallel to the coastline can easily block moisture from reaching the interior which will result in low rainfall.
4. Distance from oceans:
Some continents are so big that central place are just to far from the ocean to receive any moisture.
