An arid (desert) climate is defined as a region that receives less than 10 inches (250 mm) of precipitation per year. A semiarid climate receives between 10 and 20 inches (500 mm). Both are considered as dry climates.
The amount and distribution of precipitation is the main factor that distinguishes wet tropical climates from tropical wet and dry climates. Wet tropical climates have high and consistent rainfall throughout the year, while tropical wet and dry climates have distinct wet and dry seasons.
Two types of dry climates are arid climates, characterized by very low precipitation levels, and semi-arid climates, which receive slightly more precipitation than arid climates but still have limited water availability.
In dry climates, rates of evaporation exceed rates of precipitation. This leads to low humidity levels and a higher number of sunny days. As a result, there is limited condensation in these regions, contributing to their arid conditions.
In dry climates, rates of evaporation can exceed rates of precipitation. This occurs because the hot and arid conditions in dry climates increase evaporation, while limited moisture in the air results in lower chances of rain. This can lead to water scarcity and drought conditions in these regions.
rates of precipitation
precipitation
The amount and distribution of precipitation is the main factor that distinguishes wet tropical climates from tropical wet and dry climates. Wet tropical climates have high and consistent rainfall throughout the year, while tropical wet and dry climates have distinct wet and dry seasons.
rates of precipitation
Two types of dry climates are arid climates, characterized by very low precipitation levels, and semi-arid climates, which receive slightly more precipitation than arid climates but still have limited water availability.
The distribution of annual precipitation
All dry, arid,and semiarid climates
In dry climates, rates of evaporation exceed rates of precipitation. This leads to low humidity levels and a higher number of sunny days. As a result, there is limited condensation in these regions, contributing to their arid conditions.
precipitation
precipitation
Climates are classified based on temperature and precipitation patterns. The most commonly used classification system is the Koppen Climate Classification which divides climates into categories based on average monthly temperature and precipitation. This system helps identify and map different climate types around the world.
In dry climates, rates of evaporation can exceed rates of precipitation. This occurs because the hot and arid conditions in dry climates increase evaporation, while limited moisture in the air results in lower chances of rain. This can lead to water scarcity and drought conditions in these regions.
rates of precipitation