About the lecture

In this module, we think about the distribution and characteristics of deserts, as well as the important aeolian (wind-blown) processes which influence their formation. We focus on: (i) the distribution of deserts, notably in relation to global patterns of aridity; (ii) some of the key landforms on desert surfaces, such as dunes and mountains, and their relative prevalence; (iii) the concept of sediment budget and its importance in understanding desert landscapes; (iv) the roles of sediment size and wind strength in sediment transport processes, and the two main types of transport – suspension and saltation; (v) the influence of desert surface characteristics, such as amount of vegetation, on transport processes.

About the lecturer

Dr Jo Nield is Associate Professor in Aeolian Geomorphology at the University of Southampton. Her research focuses on aeolian processes in dune fields and other desert environments, with much of her fieldwork taking place in the desert regions of southern Africa and the USA.