Eolian processes are most effective where surface material is fine, dry and loose. Vegetation imposes a frictional force on the wind to reduce its effectiveness. Thus, an environment devoid of vegetat...Eolian processes are most effective where surface material is fine, dry and loose. Vegetation imposes a frictional force on the wind to reduce its effectiveness. Thus, an environment devoid of vegetation is best. These conditions are met in deserts found on every continent of the world. In most cases, wind erosion predominates over deposition leaving a surface of stones. Only one quarter of Earth's deserts are partially or completely covered by sand.
Deserts form in arid environments where water is limited and wind is the primary mechanism for sediment transport. Desert deposits are characterized by thick sets of cross-bedded sandstones and a com...Deserts form in arid environments where water is limited and wind is the primary mechanism for sediment transport. Desert deposits are characterized by thick sets of cross-bedded sandstones and a combination of evaporites, mud, gravel, and fluvial deposits in interdune areas.
