Eolian Processes Eolian processes refers to erosion or deposition of material due to wind

Erosion of material due to wind occurs most effectively in arid climates. Several erosional processes can be observed in arid climates As wind removes clay and dust from surfaces their elevations becomes slightly lower, this is called deflation. Over time deflation may lead to desert pavement

Sandblasting is the process by which rock is eroded due to the impact of high-speed particles. Ventifacts are sandblasted pebbles that have flat or scoop-shaped surfaces that meet at sharp ridges

As wind dies down it can no longer transport the sand, silt, and dust it has carried and deposition occurs. The deposition of coarse material often results in the formation of sand dunes. There are four main types of dunes: Barchan, Transverse, Blowout (parabolic), and Linear (longitudinal) The type of dune that forms depends on the amount of sediment available and the direction, duration, and strength of the wind

Dunes usually migrate with the prevailing wind direction