Geomorphology of desert dunes

the long version

Sand dunes cover up to a quarter of many desert regions. Determining the factors that determine their shape, size and dynamics is important to an understanding of many aspects of the geomorphology and ecology of desert regions, as well as to resource management in these areas. Recent developments in satellite images of deserts, orbital images of Mars and Venus, and oil and gas discoveries in ancient dunes, as well as detailed studies of surface processes, have significantly advanced our understanding of desert environments and raised questions about arid geomorphology. Geomorphology of Desert Dunes offers a comprehensive understanding of how desert dunes are formed, how they change, and their environmental importance. Analysing dune types, patterns, sand seas and sediments, and dune dynamics and processes at different temporal and spatial scales, the author draws on extensive research from the deserts of Africa, North America, India and Australia. Investigating the role of climatic change, the book concludes that a better understanding of dune processes and dynamics is vital for effective and appropriate avoidance and mitigation of environmental problems in arid regions. Invaluable for students and research workers in geomorphology and sedimentology, this book will also be of value to resource managers, ecologists and engineers with an interest in desert regions.