Final answer:
Dry climates are typically located in subtropical zones and behind mountain ranges which create a rain shadow effect. Characteristics of these regions include low precipitation, high temperatures, and significant temperature shifts between day and night. Desert plants have adaptations like deep root systems to conserve water.
Step-by-step explanation:
Dry Climates and Their Geographical Characteristics:
Dry climates, also known as arid or semi-arid climates (Type B), are primarily found in subtropical zones and in the rain shadows of major mountain ranges. Regions such as the Sahara Desert in northern Africa and the Mojave and Sonoran deserts in North America have an arid climate due to high-pressure, dry air descending at those latitudes, and the rain shadow effect respectively. These regions typically experience low annual precipitation of less than 30 cm (12 in), high daytime temperatures that can exceed 60°C (140°F), and drastic temperature drops at night.
The geographical characteristics causing these dry climates include factors such as proximity to the Equator, which promotes high evaporation rates due to intense sunlight, and landforms like mountains which may create rain shadows on their leeward sides. Another influence is the size of continents and the presence of major ocean currents, which can impact regional climate patterns.