Tutorial:Wind Erosion

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Wind erosion
Wind (aeolian) erosion involves two processes: deflation and abrasion. Wind erosion is particularly effective in arid environments, and in areas where there is sparse vegetation or a supply of unconsolidated sediments. Wind erosion can be a significant erosional force in ploughed fields for example.

Deflation
Deflation involves the removal of loose particles from the soil surface by the wind. Unconsolidated silt and clay-sized particles can be lifted by turbulence and carried in suspension in the atmosphere. Deflation of sand-grains can occur but tends to be localised because sand cannot be transported over long distances. The effect of deflation is to lower the soil surface. In arid areas, wind eroded surfaces may be covered by lag deposits consisting of gravel or coarser material which are too coarse to have been eroded. Where this forms a continuous the surface it is known as a desert pavement.

Abrasion
Abrasion occurs through the bombardment of surfaces by particles held in suspension in the wind. The effect tends be greatest within 1-2 metres of the ground surface where sand-sized material can be carried aloft or is bounced along the ground by saltation.

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