What Makes the World's Largest Desert More Than Just Sand?

While many people picture vast stretches of sand dunes when they think of deserts, the largest desert in the world is actually Antarctica. Covering approximately 5.5 million square miles, this cold desert is defined by its extreme dryness rather than high temperatures. With annual precipitation averaging only about 2 inches in the interior, Antarctica qualifies as a desert due to its lack of moisture. This unique environment supports a surprising array of life, including specially adapted organisms like the Antarctic krill and various hardy microorganisms that thrive in its icy conditions. The continent's ice sheets, which hold about 60% of the world's fresh water, further underscore the complexity and importance of this desolate yet vital part of our planet.