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How do deserts form?

Rain Shadow Deserts

Some deserts form because they are close to mountains -these are known as "rain shadow deserts." Air masses have to rise to go over mountains - as the air masses rise, they cool. Because they are cooler, they can't hold as much water, so it rains. Then the air, now dry, continues over the mountain to the other side. Dry air doesn't bring rain, so a desert forms on the far side of the mountains.

Comments

3/10/2007 1:43:11 PM
Shelby said:

You need the list some of the Rain shadow deserts in the world. That would help out alot. But other wise this is a very great tip.

10/15/2007 4:41:37 PM
anonymous said:

thanks. I needed this info.

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