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Why most of the world’s deserts are located in the ... - Contemporary India
Why most of the world’s deserts are located in the western margins of continents in the subtropics?
Most of the world's deserts are located on the western margins of continents in the subtropics due to the following reasons:
Offshore Trade Winds: In the subtropics, the prevailing Trade Winds blow from East to West. By the time they reach the western margins of continents, they become "offshore" (blowing from land to sea), meaning they carry no moisture to cause rainfall.
Cold Ocean Currents: The western coasts of continents in these latitudes are often washed by cold ocean currents (e.g., the Canary Current, Benguela Current). These currents cool the air above them, reducing its ability to hold moisture and creating dry, stable atmospheric conditions.
Subtropical High-Pressure Belt: These regions fall under the subtropical high-pressure belt where air descends (sinks). Sinking air warms up and inhibits the formation of clouds and rain.
Rain Shadow Effect: In many cases, mountains on the eastern side block the moisture-bearing winds from reaching the western margins.