A desert climate is characterized by low precipitation, typically receiving less than 10 inches of rain per year. This climate results in dry conditions, with high evaporation rates that exceed rainfall. Deserts can be hot, like the Sahara, or cold, like the Gobi, but they all share the common trait of aridity. Temperatures in desert climates can vary significantly between day and night. During the day, temperatures can soar, often exceeding 100°F (38°C), while at night, they can drop dramatically, sometimes below freezing. This temperature fluctuation is due to the lack of moisture in the air, which prevents heat retention.