Which desert is the largest hot desert in the world?

The Sahara Desert is recognized as the largest hot desert in the world, covering an area of approximately 9.2 million square kilometers (3.6 million square miles). This vast arid region spans multiple countries in North Africa, including Algeria, Chad, Egypt, Libya, Mali, Mauritania, Morocco, Niger, Sudan, and Tunisia. Its climate is characterized by extremely high temperatures during the day, low rainfall, and sparse vegetation, making it a classic example of a hot desert.

In contrast to the Sahara, the Mojave, Kalahari, and Sonoran Deserts are smaller in size and each has distinct characteristics. The Mojave Desert, located in the United States, is known for its unique landscapes and lower temperatures. The Kalahari Desert, found in Southern Africa, is often classified as a semi-arid region and is notable for its seasonal rains and diverse ecosystem. The Sonoran Desert in North America is also smaller than the Sahara and has different climatic conditions, including some areas that receive cooler winter temperatures.

Understanding these aspects highlights why the Sahara holds the title of the largest hot desert, as it encompasses the most extensive area with extreme heat and limited precipitation compared to other desert regions worldwide.