Deserts of the United States Quiz

Deserts of the United States Quiz

Mojave, Sonoran, Great Basin deserts (10 questions).

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Deserts of the United States Quiz: Quick Study Notes

Explore the arid landscapes of the American West. This quiz focuses on the unique characteristics, geography, and flora of the three primary deserts found in the region: the Great Basin, Mojave, and Sonoran.

Great BasinKnown as a “cold desert” due to its high elevation and northern latitude.
Mojave DesertHome to the hottest place in North America (Death Valley) and Joshua Trees.
Sonoran DesertThe most biodiverse US desert, characterized by Saguaro cacti and two rainy seasons.
Rain ShadowsThese deserts exist largely because mountain ranges block moisture from the Pacific.

Key Takeaways

  • The Great Basin is the largest desert in the United States.
  • The Saguaro cactus grows naturally only in the Sonoran Desert.
  • Las Vegas is the major metropolitan hub of the Mojave Desert.
  • Sagebrush is the indicator species for the Great Basin.
  • The Mojave is the smallest of the four major North American deserts.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the largest desert in the United States?

The Great Basin Desert is the largest, covering approximately 190,000 square miles across Nevada, Utah, and surrounding states.

Which desert has Joshua Trees?

The Joshua Tree is native primarily to the Mojave Desert and is considered its biological indicator species.

Where is the Sonoran Desert located?

The Sonoran Desert covers parts of southern Arizona and southeastern California in the US, and extends significantly into Mexico.

Is the Great Basin Desert hot or cold?

It is classified as a cold desert because of its high altitude and latitude, often experiencing snow in the winter.

Which desert contains Death Valley?

Death Valley is located in the northern part of the Mojave Desert.

GeoQuizzy.com • Deserts of the United States Quiz

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