Taking a global perspective, this book provides a concise overview of drylands, including their physical, biological, temporal, and human components. Examines the physical systems occurring in desert environments, including climate, hydrology, past and present lakes, weathering, hillslopes, geomorphic surfaces, water as a geomorphic agent, and aeolian processesOffers an accessible introduction to the physical, biological, temporal, and human components of drylandsInvestigates the nature, environmental requirements, and essential geomorphic roles of plants and animals in this stressful biological environmentHighlights the impact of human population growth on climate, desertification, water resources, and dust storm activityIncludes an examination of surface/atmosphere interactions and the impact of ENSO events.