Why do deserts exhibit extreme temperatures?
A) Due to their elevation
B) Because of constant wind patterns
C) Due to lack of moisture, low humidity, and minimal cloud cover
D) Because of their proximity to the equator
Answer (2)
Deserts exhibit extreme temperature variations primarily due to the unique climatic conditions they experience. The correct choice from the options provided is C) Due to lack of moisture, low humidity, and minimal cloud cover.
Here's how these factors contribute to the extreme temperatures:
Lack of Moisture: Deserts have very low levels of precipitation. This lack of moisture means there is little water for evaporation, which is a process that cools the air. Without this cooling effect, temperatures can rise significantly during the day.
Low Humidity: Humidity refers to the amount of water vapor in the air. Desert air is usually very dry, which means there is low humidity. Dry air does not hold heat as well as moist air, allowing temperatures to drop sharply at night.
Minimal Cloud Cover: Clouds act as a blanket, trapping heat in the atmosphere. Deserts often have clear skies and minimal cloud cover, which means they lose heat more rapidly at night. During the day, the lack of cloud cover means more solar radiation reaches the ground, increasing daytime temperatures.
Together, these factors lead to deserts having hot days with temperatures that can soar well above 100°F (38°C) and cold nights, where temperatures can drop precipitously, sometimes even approaching freezing. This wide range in daily temperature is characteristic of desert climates.
Deserts experience extreme temperatures mainly due to a lack of moisture, low humidity, and minimal cloud cover. These conditions lead to high daytime temperatures and steep drops at night. Therefore, the correct answer is C) Due to lack of moisture, low humidity, and minimal cloud cover.
;
