Weathering of Materials and Formation of Sand Dunes  based on 5
ratings Author: Janice VanCleave  Erosion is the process by
which materials of Earth's surface are broken down and carried
away by natural agents, such as wind and water. The part of
erosion that involves only the breakdown of materials into
smaller parts is called weathering. In some deserts, winds are
strong enough to lift and suspend hundreds of pounds (kg) of
sand for days at a time. The sand grains hit and grind against
all surfaces they touch. The soft parts of structures are
weathered first, and these parts fall or are blown away by the
wind. Grinding, sand-filled winds create holes in rocks that
often become homes for desert animals. Desert landforms created
by blowing wind include arches and caves.  While deserts in
different locations have different ground coverings, both hot
and cold deserts have ground coverings that include sand, coarse
or sandy soil, and pebbles. Erosion occurs in both hot and cold
deserts. Where sand is present and