arid areas experiencing low rainfall, generally below 250 mm/year, and high summer temperatures

a global land area that is characterised by its plants, animals and climate

the average weather conditions of a place over a long period of time, typically 30 years or more

Location and physical characteristics of hot deserts

Geography

This unit teaches pupils about the location, characterisitics, opprtunities and challenges associated with one global environment, either hot deserts or cold environments. Pupils will also learn about plant and animal adaptation and about issues facing their chosen environment.

Hot desert and cold environments

Geological processes such as volcanic activity or earthquakes

The non-living elements such as soil, the climate, water, nutrients and sunlight

The living things such as plants, bacteria, fungi and animals

Chemical elements like oxygen, nitrogen, and carbon dioxide

What is a biotic component of an ecosystem?

How much rainfall does a hot desert receive each year?

Between 0° and 15° North and South of the Equator

Between 15° and 30° North and South of the Equator

On the Tropic of Cancer (23.5° North) and Tropic of Capricorn (23.5° South) only

Hot deserts are located between which lines of latitude?

Hot deserts are hot because of their location and proximity to the Equator. This latitude effect means the Sun's energy here is more {{}}, making it warmer.

Where warm air rises and causes clouds to form, resulting in precipitation

Where atmospheric pressure is lower than normal, leading to stormy weather

Where humidity is high, causing increased rainfall and thunderstorms

Where air is dense and sinks, leading to clear skies and dry weather

Hot deserts are dry because they sit under an area of high pressure. What is high pressure?

A large area characterised by its distinct climate, vegetation and animal life

A specific type of animal species found in a particular region

A term used to describe the weather patterns of a region

The imaginary lines around the Earth measuring distance from the Equator are known as line of ...

Put these biomes in the most likely order; starting at the Equator and  moving north or south.

Which of the following is a characteristic of a hot desert?

Hot deserts are located near the Equator where the Sun's rays are concentrated

Hot deserts are located in places that are closest to the Sun

Hot deserts have a high number of active volcanoes

Hot deserts are located at high altitudes

What is the primary reason for the high temperatures in hot deserts?

Starter Quiz