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 processes * Offers an accessible introduction to the physical, biological, temporal, and human components of drylands * Investigates the nature, environmental requirements, and essential geomorphic roles of plants and animals in this stressful biological environment * Highlights the impact of human population growth on climate, desertification, water resources, and dust storm activity * Includes an examination of surface/atmosphere interactions and the impact of ENSO events.