The formation of silt from quartz dune sand by salt-weathering processes in deserts.

摘要: Recent discussions on the origin of silt-sized quartz particles in hot deserts, and previous experiments salt weathering rocks, prompted an experiment to test hypothesis that salt-weathering processes might generate particles. The involved treating aeolian sand grains daily with saturated solutions Na2SO4 a climatic cabinet programmed simulate desert environment. Results indicate (a) are produced under these conditions, (b) angular (compared rounded grains) (c) salt-crystal growth cracks other lines weakness original may be responsible for disintegration. It is suggested deserts—especially coastal playa areas where saline groundwater close surface—may provide indigenous mechanism production silt deserts.