Theory question 303
Wind and Desert Landforms(a) List three processes of wind erosion. (b) With the aid of a diagram, describe the characteristics and mode of formation of a zeugen.
Show the model answer
Model answer
(a) Deflation; abrasion (corrasion); attrition.
(b) Diagram: tabular ridges of hard rock capping soft rock, separated by deep furrows. Characteristics: ridge-and-furrow landscape; flat tops of hard rock; steep sides; furrows up to about 30 m deep; found in deserts. Formation: horizontal layers of hard rock lie over soft rock; joints in the hard cap are widened by weathering (e.g. frost or temperature change); wind abrasion then cuts down into the soft rock beneath, deepening the furrows; the hard rock remains as tabular blocks (zeugen) and may be undercut.
Explanation
Mention hard over soft layers.