Question

the sahara desert, situated in africa, is a region characterized by its arid desert climate. what type of region is the sahara desert?
vernacular
enclave
formal
functional
perceptual

Explanation:

A formal region is defined by a common characteristic, such as climate. The Sahara Desert has a uniform arid desert climate across its area, which fits the definition of a formal region. A vernacular region is based on people's perceptions (e.g., "the South" in the US). An enclave is a territory surrounded by another territory. A functional region is organized around a node (e.g., a city - its surrounding suburbs and areas it influences). A perceptual region is similar to vernacular, based on feelings and attitudes. Since the Sahara is defined by its climate (a common, measurable characteristic), it is a formal region.

Answer:

Formal