Opens in a new tab

Letter WGeology glossary

Wind Abrasion

Wind abrasion is the process by which wind-driven particles, such as sand, erode and polish the surfaces of rocks and other materials. This process is significant in desert geomorphology for understanding the formation of ventifacts, yardangs, and other wind-eroded features, as well as the long-term impact of wind on landscapes.

Wind-carved sandstone rock formation under blue sky (wind abrasion)
Fig. 1 Wind-carved sandstone rock formation under blue sky (wind abrasion)

Source Greeley, R., & Iversen, J. D. (1987). “Wind as a Geological Process: On Earth, Mars, Venus and Titan.” Cambridge University Press.

join.me

Geology made clear, in your inbox.

Get clear, visual explainers on rocks, minerals, deep time, and the most fascinating parts of Earth science from Geoscopy.