Which of the following processes of wind action is erosion?

Analyze the question: The question asks which of the listed processes is erosion by wind. Note that the options are a mix: some describe how wind transports material, and one describes how wind removes material.

Explain the concept:

Wind action involves three stages:

1. Erosion (removal/wearing away of material): deflation, abrasion (corrasion), and attrition.
2. Transportation (movement of material): saltation, suspension, traction (surface creep).
3. Deposition: formation of sand dunes, loess, etc.

Step-by-step:

• Saltation: Sand grains bounce along the ground in short hops. This is a transportation process.
• Deflation: The wind blows away loose, fine particles (sand, dust) from the surface, lowering the land and leaving behind stones (desert pavement/reg) or hollows (deflation hollows or depressions, such as the Qattara Depression). This is an erosion process.
• Suspension: Very fine dust is carried in the air for long distances. This is transportation.
• Traction: Heavier particles are rolled or dragged along the ground. This is transportation.

Correct answer: B. Deflation

Exam tip: Remember the transport trio as S-S-T: Saltation, Suspension, Traction. Anything else in a wind question, like deflation and abrasion, is likely erosion. Also, think "Deflation = Down" (the land is lowered as material is blown away).