World Geography

Model Answer

Deserts, which cover about one-fifth of Earth’s land area, possess significant resource potential despite their harsh environments. These resources can be harnessed through appropriate technology and sustainable practices.

1. Mineral Resources

• • Metallic minerals such as copper, lead, zinc, and lithium are found in desert regions.
  • Non-metallic minerals like beryllium, mica, pumice, and clay are abundant.
  • Saline minerals such as salt, borates, and potassium are often extracted from salt pans.
    For example, the Salar de Atacama in Chile is known for its vast lithium reserves, which are crucial for battery production.

2. Energy Resources

Many desert regions, including the Middle East and Africa, hold substantial petroleum deposits. The Sahara has significant oil shale reserves, while regions like the Arabian Peninsula have mega aquifer systems that provide water for agriculture and human consumption.
Deserts also possess strong potential for renewable energy, particularly solar and wind power, due to their abundant sunlight and consistent winds. Large-scale solar farms are operational in deserts like the Mojave Desert (USA) and Atacama Desert (Chile).

3. Agriculture and Tourism

Despite the arid conditions, xerophytic vegetation and certain crops like date palms, figs, and almonds thrive in desert environments. For example, Israel has successfully transformed the Negev Desert into arable land.
Deserts also attract tourists due to their unique landscapes and cultural heritage, with destinations like the Pyramids of Giza (Egypt) and Jaisalmer’s Desert Safari (India).

Mineral Profile of the Thar Desert
The Thar Desert in India is rich in several important resources:

• Energy Resources: Lignite is extracted in regions like Barmer and Bikaner, and crude oil and natural gas are found in the Barmer-Sanchore basin.
• Industrial Minerals: The desert has vast limestone deposits used for construction and a variety of marbles, including white marble from Markrana.
• Fertilizer Resources: The Thar Desert is India’s leading producer of gypsum, contributing nearly 99% of national output. Potash is also found in significant quantities in Hanumangarh and Bikaner.
• Other Minerals: Tungsten and feldspar, used in various industrial applications, are also present in the Thar.

Despite the immense resource potential, it is essential to manage these resources sustainably to prevent environmental degradation.