Geosystems: An Introduction to Physical Geography (10th Edition)
Geosystems: An Introduction to Physical Geography (10th Edition)
10th Edition
ISBN: 9780134597119
Author: Robert W. Christopherson, Ginger E. Birkeland
Publisher: PEARSON
Question
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Chapter 15, Problem 1GQ
To determine

To describe:

The growth, structure, and migration of dune starting with a small obstacle that interrupts the sand particle.

Expert Solution & Answer
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Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

The shape and size of different types of dunes depend on the directional variability and effectiveness of the wind, limited or abundant supply of sand, and whether the vegetation is present or absent.

A dune refers to the mound of sand developed by wind, generally in the desert or along the beach. The formation of dune occurs when the wind drives sand into the sheltered region behind an obstacle. The characteristic profile of a dune can be formed by the combination of wind erosion and deposition. The growth of dune occurs due to the accumulation of wind-borne particles on the windward slope. The accumulated particles then descend towards the steep slipface of the leeward slope.

The continuous growth of dunes further steepens the leeward slope. The cross-section of a typical dune represents that the continuous growth of dune results in the formation of a layered pattern by the earlier slipfaces. The continuous process of transferring the particles form windward slope to leeward slope is responsible for the migration of dune.

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