Why is the tundra so cold?

Surface of the tundra is covered mostly by permafrost. This prevents most of the flora from having a root system and the ones that do have a shallow root system that cannot withstand high winds.

In addition low precipitation means less water to support trees. Thus, due to these factors the tundra is so cold most of the year.

For more relevant articles refer to the links given below:

• UPSC Environment and Ecology Questions
• Conservation of Biodiversity
• UPSC Environment and Ecology