Answer: 

Introduction:

Hot deserts are typically found in the subtropical regions of the world, with the majority located in the northern hemisphere. Interestingly, they are mostly located between the latitudes of 20-30 degrees north and on the western side of the Continents.

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Body:

Various factors of geographical location:

• Global Wind Patterns: The Earth’s atmospheric circulation pattern, also known as the Hadley Cell, plays a crucial role in the formation of deserts. The hot, moist air rises at the equator and travels towards the poles, then cools and descends around 20-30 degrees north and south of the equator, creating arid conditions in those regions. E.g Azizia, Libya.
• Rain Shadow Effect: Mountains on the western side of the continents act as barriers to moisture-laden winds. When these winds encounter mountains, they rise, cool, and release their moisture as rainfall. As a result, the eastern side of the mountains receives abundant rainfall, while the western side is left relatively dry, creating desert conditions. E.g
• Ocean Currents: The major hot deserts are located adjacent to cold ocean currents that have a significant influence on their climate. The cold ocean currents cool the adjacent land, leading to stable atmospheric conditions that limit precipitation and create desert-like conditions. E.g Humboldt Current , west Australian Current.
• Continental Drift: The location of hot deserts in the northern hemisphere is also the result of continental drift. Millions of years ago, the continents were located differently than they are today. The current arrangement of the continents favors the formation of hot deserts in the areas mentioned above. E.g Gobi desert.

Conclusion:

The location of major hot deserts in the northern hemisphere is a result of complex interactions between the atmospheric circulation patterns, ocean currents, and land configurations. This unique combination of factors results in a specific set of climatic conditions that are conducive to the formation and maintenance of hot deserts in these regions. Understanding these factors is crucial for predicting and managing the impacts of desertification and global climate change.

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