Tag: Turkic

A streamlined, wind-carved ridge of rock or compacted sediment, aligned parallel to the prevailing wind direction. Yardangs form when wind-driven sand abrades softer material, sculpting it into elongated, aerodynamic shapes — narrow at the windward end, wider at the lee. Fields of yardangs can resemble fleets of stone ships sailing across the desert floor.

A crescent-shaped sand dune with horns pointing downwind, formed by wind blowing consistently from one direction across a hard surface with a limited sand supply. Barchans are among the most elegant landforms on earth — symmetrical, aerodynamic, and in constant slow motion, migrating downwind at rates of up to 100 feet per year. They travel as individuals or in fleets across reg and hamada surfaces.