What type of climate is characterized by cold, dry, permanently frozen soil called permafrost?

The tundra climate is defined by extremely cold temperatures, low precipitation, and a unique phenomenon known as permafrost, which refers to the permanently frozen ground layer beneath the surface. This type of climate occurs mainly in the Arctic regions and at high elevations, where the harsh conditions prevent the growth of large trees and limit the vegetation to low shrubs, mosses, and lichens.

The cold temperatures and limited sunlight during winter months contribute to the formation of permafrost, which can extend several feet below the surface. During the brief summer, the top layer of soil may thaw, allowing for a short growing season, but the underlying permafrost remains frozen. This cycle of freeze and thaw drastically influences the ecosystem and the types of organisms that can survive in tundra regions.

In contrast, deserts experience high temperatures and low precipitation, while taiga, also known as boreal forests, features colder temperatures yet allows for the growth of coniferous trees, and tropical climates are characterized by warm temperatures and abundant rainfall. These characteristics clearly distinguish the tundra from the other climate types listed.