Title: Our Dynamic Desert
Headings: Weathering and Erosion in Desert Environments
Weathering and Erosion in Desert Environments
Content: Our Dynamic Desert

Introduction to the
Mojave National Preserve
Physiography
Weather Data
General Mojave
Geologic History
Changing Climates   & Ancient Lakes
Weathering & Erosion
Carbonate
Rocks &
Landforms
Granitic
Rocks &
Landforms
Volcanic
Rocks &
Landforms
Faults & Active Tectonics
Pediments & Alluvial Fans
Stream Channel
Development
Stream Terraces
& Older Surfaces
Mojave River
Playas
Sand Dunes & Dust
Human Impacts
Selected References
3D Geology Tour
Index Page
Weathering and Erosion in Desert Environments
Mountains form because, over long periods of time, uplift proceeds faster than erosion can keep pace. Through time, erosion progressively carves canyons into mountainous areas. Mountain stream channels are self-perpetuating; as water gathers into rills and channels, the greater the flow, the greater the erosive force. Likewise, streams with steep drainage profiles are capable of moving more material. Without abundant water in the arid environment, the chemical breakdown of rocks proceeds extremely slowly relative to equivalent rocks in humid climates. However, it is somewhat paradoxical that the mechanical breakdown of rock proceeds relatively quickly in the arid climate. In wet regions, the ground remains partially or fully saturated. Plants typically cover the landscape and bind the soil, and hence, prevent erosion. In dry climates, soil forms very slowly, and much of the bedrock remains exposed to erosion.