Earth Learning
Geological Features in Deserts
Alluvial Fan: A large, fan-shaped pile of sediment forming at the base of narrow canyons. Alluvium: Gravel, silt, and clay deposited by streams. Arroyo: A dry desert gully. Dunes: Mounds of loose grains of sand piled up by the wind. Mesa: Broad flat-topped hill. Pediment: A gently sloping surface usually