According to available data, approximately 33% of Earth's total land surface area is covered by deserts.
Based on the provided reference, Earth's total land surface area is approximately 57,308,738 square miles. Of this vast area, the reference states that about 33% consists of deserts. For context, this also means that deserts cover a larger portion of the land than mountainous regions, which account for about 24% of the land surface according to the same source.
Understanding the scale of deserts on our planet:
- Deserts are defined by their low levels of precipitation, not necessarily their temperature. They can be hot, like the Sahara, or cold, like Antarctica.
- Covering roughly one-third of the land surface highlights the significant role these arid and semi-arid regions play in global geography and ecosystems.
- This vast area influences climate patterns, supports unique forms of life adapted to extreme conditions, and presents significant challenges for human habitation and resource management.
Here's a simple breakdown based on the provided figures:
| Land Type | Approximate Percentage of Total Land Surface |
|---|---|
| Deserts | 33% |
| Mountainous | 24% |
| Other Land Types | ~43% |
This information underscores the extensive reach of desert environments across the globe.
