What could be the main reason/reasons for the formation of African and Eurasian desert belts?
- It is located in the subtropical high-pressure cells.
- It is under the influence of warm ocean currents.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct in this context?
- 1 only
- 2 only
- Both 1 and 2
- Neither 1 nor 2
Explanation
Statement 1 is correct
- The major deserts forming the African and Eurasian desert belt (such as the Sahara, Arabian and Thar deserts) lie around 20°–30° latitude, which corresponds to the subtropical high-pressure belt. In this region, descending air associated with the Hadley Cell becomes warm and dry, inhibiting cloud formation and precipitation. This persistent subsidence creates arid conditions, leading to the development of deserts.
Statement 2 is incorrect
- The warm ocean currents generally increase evaporation and moisture availability, which can promote rainfall rather than desert formation. Deserts are more commonly associated with the influence of cold ocean currents (e.g., the Benguela Current near the Namib Desert).
