A classification of dunes based on aeolian dynamics and the sand budget.

Abstract

Distinguishes between the forms of pure accumulations of barchan structures, transverse chains, linear dunes and star dunes; and erosional forms of parabolic dunes, and sandridges. These two classes appear to be responses to different sediment budgets. The excessive budget results from a wind saturated with sand and is responsible for the ergs of transverse chains. The deficient budget is due to a change in climate. Includes a review of climatic control mechanisms which apply to each of these aeolian structures.-from Author