ClimateAugust 21, 2026

barchan

BAR-kahn

Definition

A crescent-shaped sand dune with the tips pointing downwind, formed by wind blowing in a constant direction across a surface with limited sand supply.

Etymology

The word is derived from the Turkic word 'barchan', referring to shifting sand dunes, and entered English in the mid-19th century via Russian explorers studying the geography of Central Asia.

In the news

The article references barchan dunes as a key indicator that helps scientists infer wind direction and sediment properties on both Earth and Mars.

Study: Global sand dunes map reveals clues to climate, Mars

Read the full article ↗

chinadailyhk

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