Examkin

Question

Difficulty: MediumLandform Development by Wind Action and Glaciation

In arid geomorphology, both Zeugen and Yardangs represent wind-eroded ridge-and-furrow landforms. Which of the following structural characteristics distinguishes the formation of a Zeugen from that of a Yardang?

  1. Zeugen develop in horizontal strata of alternating hard and soft rocks cut by joint patterns.Answer
  2. B
    Zeugen form where vertical or steeply inclined bands of hard and soft rock run parallel to prevailing winds.
  3. C
    Zeugen are created by fluvial deposition along lower river courses during periodic flash floods.
  4. D
    Zeugen result primarily from down-slope mass movement of saturated rock debris under gravity.

Answer

Zeugen develop in desert environments characterized by horizontally bedded strata of alternating hard and soft rock cut by joint systems.
Zeugen formation relies on horizontal rock strata where an upper resistant cap-rock covers a softer underlying rock layer. Mechanical weathering opens vertical joints, allowing wind abrasion to scour deep furrows and leave flat-topped ridges.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the structural arrangement of rocks in Zeugen formation.
Zeugen require tabular, flat-lying (horizontal) layers of resistant rock overlying less resistant rock with joints exposed to weathering and wind abrasion.
Wind abrasion deepens joint cracks into narrow furrows, leaving flat-topped ridges of hard rock standing above soft rock bases.
2
Compare Zeugen rock structure with Yardang rock structure.
Yardangs develop where rock strata are vertically aligned or steeply dipping parallel to the direction of prevailing winds, whereas Zeugen develop from horizontal strata.
Distinguishing rock layer orientation (horizontal vs vertical alignment) is key to differentiating these two wind-eroded landforms.

Key Concept

Structural differences between Zeugen and Yardang landform development
Estimated Time:1m 0s
Rate this question

Topics

Landform Development by Wind Action and Glaciation

More questions from this topic