
A desert is a landscape characterized by minimal precipitation, leading to unique biomes and ecosystems. Covering about one-third of the Earth’s surface, deserts can be found in arid and semi-arid regions, including polar deserts. They are shaped by weathering processes and temperature fluctuations, which cause rocks to break apart. Although rain is scarce, occasional downpours can result in flash floods and subsequent erosion by wind, leading to the formation of sand dunes and desert pavements.
Plants and animals in deserts have adapted to survive harsh conditions. Many plants are tough with small leaves or spines, while some annual plants bloom rapidly after rain. Desert animals, often nocturnal, conserve water by extracting it from food and concentrating urine. Some enter dormancy until rain returns.
Human inhabitants have lived in deserts for millennia, with nomadic herding and settled life around oases. Desert farming is possible through irrigation, as seen in California’s Imperial Valley. Historically, trade routes across deserts facilitated the movement of goods, while mineral extraction and solar energy potential also exist in these regions.