Dust storms are a vital component of the environment. This book explores and summarises recent research on where dust storms originate, why dust storms are generated, where dust is transported and deposited, the nature of dust deposits and the changing frequency of dust storms over a range of time-scales. It is the first global study of causes and effects of dust storms, which are one of the increasing nature catastrophes.

Résumé

Dust storms, produced by the removal of surface materials from the world's drylands, are a vital component of the environment. This is because of their role in biogeochemical cycling, their potential influence on climate, their role in sediment accumulation and their influence on human affairs. This book, which is exhaustively referenced, explores and summarises recent research on where dust storms originate, why dust storms are generated, where dust is transported and deposited, the nature of dust deposits and the changing frequency of dust storms over a range of time-scales.

Contenu

The Nature and Importance of Dust Storms.- Dust Entrainment, Transport and Deposition.- Environmental and Human Consequences.- The Global Picture.- The Regional Picture.- Dust Concentrations, Accumulation and Constituents.- Changing Frequencies of Dust Storm.- Dust Storm Control.- Quaternary Dust Loadings.- Loess.