Kavīr Desert

Kavīr DesertThe Kavīr Desert is characterized by an almost rainless climate and quicksandlike salt marshes.
Kavīr Desert, Iran
Kavīr Desert, Iran

Kavīr Desert, great salt desert of north-central Iran. Located in a basin southeast of the Elburz Mountains, it is approximately 240 miles (390 km) wide. The desert is distinguished by its salt crust, caused by the almost rainless climate and intense surface evaporation, lying over treacherous quicksandlike salt marshes that are almost uninhabited. Settlements are found only in the surrounding mountain ranges.

This article was most recently revised and updated by John P. Rafferty.
Citation Information
Article Title: Kavīr Desert
Website Name: Encyclopaedia Britannica
Publisher: Encyclopaedia Britannica, Inc.
Date Published: 19 January 2018
URL: https://www.britannica.comhttps://www.britannica.com/place/Kavir-Desert
Access Date: November 21, 2024