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Deserts are large areas of land that receive very little precipitation, typically less than 250 millimeters (10 inches) per year. They are characterized by their arid climate, which results in sparse vegetation and unique landscapes. Deserts can be found on every continent, including Antarctica, and cover approximately 20% of the Earth's land surface.

Deserts are classified into two main types: hot deserts and cold deserts. Hot deserts, such as the Sahara in Africa and the Mojave in North America, have high temperatures and low humidity. Cold deserts, like the Gobi in Asia and the Atacama in South America, experience cold temperatures and high humidity. Some deserts, such as the Namib in Africa, have a coastal location and are influenced by the cold ocean currents.

Deserts are formed through various processes, including tectonic activity, climate change, and the movement of air masses. They can also be created by human activities, such as agriculture and urbanization. Despite their harsh conditions, deserts are home to a diverse range of flora and fauna that have adapted to survive in these extreme environments.

Deserts play a crucial role in the Earth's ecosystem, acting as a source of minerals and nutrients for plants and animals. They also influence global climate patterns and weather systems. However, deserts are also vulnerable to environmental degradation, such as desertification, which can be caused by overgrazing, deforestation, and climate change. Conservation efforts are essential to protect these unique and fragile ecosystems.