WIND

Deflation

The removal of loose, fine particles (like dust and sand) by wind, often leaving behind larger rocks

Suspension

Very fine particles (like dust) are carried high in the air over long distances

Saltation

 Small sand-sized particles bounce or hop along the ground

Surface creep

Larger particles roll or slide along the ground due to wind or impact from saltating grains

Desert pavement

Surface covered with tightly packed pebbles after finer material is removed by deflation

Yardangs

 Long, streamlined ridges carved by wind erosion, aligned with wind direction

Ventifacts

 Rocks shaped, polished, or faceted by wind-blown sand

Blowouts

Depressions in the ground formed where wind has removed sediment

Desert Characteristics

Defined by low precipitation

Not all deserts are hot or sandy

Sand Dunes

Form with loose sand, wind, little vegetation
Move in direction of prevailing wind
Shape depends on wind direction and sand supply

Barchan dunes

Limited sand, one wind direction
Crescent-shaped; tips point downwind

Transverse dunes

 Lots of sand, one wind direction
Long ridges perpendicular to wind

Longitudinal (Seif) dunes

Moderate sand, two wind directions
Long ridges parallel to wind

Parabolic dunes

Some vegetation, coastal or semi-arid
U-shaped; tips point upwind

Star dunes

Lots of sand, variable winds
Pyramid shape with multiple arms