Outline the sources of water in deserts.
- AQA - A-Level Geography - Question 2 - 2022 - Paper 1
Question 2
Outline the sources of water in deserts.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Outline the sources of water in deserts.
- AQA - A-Level Geography - Question 2 - 2022 - Paper 1
Step 1
Precipitation in the form of rainfall
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Answer
Precipitation is the primary source of water in deserts, occurring in the form of infrequent rainfall. Events can be episodic and vary in intensity, often due to convectional rainfall. Although these events are rare, they are essential for providing moisture.
Step 2
Exogenous rivers
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Exogenous rivers are those that originate outside of the desert area. They carry substantial quantities of water, sustaining the ecosystems in their paths before they dry up in the desert environment. An example of such a river is the River Nile.
Step 3
Endoreic rivers
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Endoreic rivers flow into a terminal basin, such as a lake or an inland sea, without reaching an ocean. A notable example is the River Jordan, which flows into the Dead Sea and loses water mainly through evaporation.
Step 4
Ephemeral rivers
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Ephemeral rivers may flow following a storm or after a shower. These rivers might be temporary, often disappearing after rainfall ends. They play a significant role in the desert water cycle during their active periods.
