Deserts are characterized as regions with semi-arid or arid conditions and lack of moisture. Major hot deserts are formed in 20° – 30° latitudes.

Reasons behind desert formation on Western side of continents:

1. EFFECT OF EASTERLY TRADE WINDS

The Easterlies carry moisture from the warmth ocean surface and cause heavy rainfall on eastern costs of continents, thus, losing moisture. This creates der conditions on Western coasts.

2. RAIN SHADOW ZONE

The eastern wings undergo adiabatic cooling on windward side of mountains and cause rainfall. Thus, leeward side experiences rain shadow effect.

3. PRESENCE OF COLD CURRENTS

Cold currents like Canary Current (Africa) and Californian Current (North America) on western coasts reduce the moisture carrying capacity of winds.

4. ANTICYCLONIC CONDITIONS

The subtropical high pressure belt contributes to appropriate conditions fri anticyclones, making the region dry.

5. WEATHER

The temperature in the 20° – 30°N belts is recorded high due to direct insolation.

Thus, major hot deserts such as Sahara Desert (Africa), Thar Desert (India) amd Atlas Desert (Africa) are all formed along the western coasts of continents.