Aeolian Geomorphology and its Simulation–Aeolian Sand Ripples

Abstract

In desolate deserts, sand particles are arranged by wind into various geomorphologic patterns, like aeolian sand ripples and aeolian sand dunes, according to certain rules. Aeolian landforms exist not only on Earth (see Fig. 6.1) but also on other planets, such as Mars (see Fig. 6.2). Strikingly, the corresponding patterns on different planets and the different patterns on a same planet have a similarity. Therefore, it is meaningful to reveal the dominating mechanism governing the formation, evolution and distribution of aeolian landforms, which is beneficial to the understanding of wind erosion, transportation and deposition of sand (dust) materials. In addition, it is also helpful to the theoretical guidance for the designs of sand-fixing facilities and sand-controlling projects in deserts, for example, the roads and railways passing through deserts are required to avoid the moving route of sand dunes.