Question Q.13GS1GS1

Give a reasoned account of the distribution of deserts across the earth with the help of relevant examples.

Main Body

As per World Meteorological Organisation:

Deserts are the region which receive less than 25 cm of annual rainfall. Globally, both hot and cold deserts are found.

Distribution of Deserts:

[Diagram showing major deserts with labels: Kalahari, Sahara, Arabian, Gobi, Atacama, Patagonian, Great Australian Desert]

Factors for Desert Formation:

1Sub-tropical westerly wind region having very winds - Sahara desert.

2Continentality effect and desiccation of winds - Gobi Desert in China.

3Dessicating effect of cold ocean waves - Chilean desert, Namib Desert.

4Rain Shadow regions created due to blocking effect of mountains on rain bearing winds - Patagonian Desert (formed by Andes).

5Parallel mountains to the wind direction prevent any uplift of rain bearing clouds - Thar desert being parallel to Aravalli. Monsoon winds pass without precipitation.

6Man-made deserts due to land-use change and land-degradation - Extension of Aravalli in Punjab.

Influence of Desert:

I - Desert Flora:

Succulent plants

Fleshy leaves

Deeper roots

Fleshly shrubs

II - Desert Fauna:

Reduced size of organisms

Burrowers

Remarkable walky adaptation in sfoot. Ex: Feet and claws of camel

III - On Humans:

Loose clothing

Citrus fruit consumption

Therefore, the spirit of UN Decade of Ecosystem Restoration (2021-30) and UNCED declarations need to be followed to restrict desertification and achieve LAND DEGRADATION NEUTRALITY.

223 words14 paragraphs

Conclusion

Desert influence extends to flora, fauna, and humans; requires international cooperation for land degradation neutrality

15 words

Diagram

Map showing distribution of major deserts including Kalahari, Sahara, Arabian, Gobi, Atacama, Patagonian, and Great Australian Desert

Clear definition using scientific source
Comprehensive global examples
Well-organized factors with specific regional examples
Visual diagram enhances understanding
Comprehensive classification of desert flora and fauna
Mentions global initiatives
Links environmental policy to answer

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Page 29

Topper

WASIM-UR-RAHMAN

AIR 1572025

Subject & Paper

GS1GS1

Topic

Physical Geography

Distribution of Natural Resources

Desert Distribution and Characteristics

Writing Stats

238

Total words

Paragraphs

expository

Tone