Chapter 15: Problem 7

Differentiate between a dust storm and a sandstorm.

Short Answer

Expert verified

A dust storm consists of small, light particles picked up by wind from dry surfaces and can cause health problems. They commonly occur in arid and semi-arid regions. A sandstorm consists of larger grains of sand picked up by high-speed winds in desert areas, causing low visibility and physical abrasion damage.

Step by step solution

Define Dust Storm

A dust storm is a meteorological phenomenon common in arid and semi-arid regions. Dust storms arise when a gust front or other strong wind blows loose sand and dirt from a dry surface. They can cause eye, nose, and throat irritation, and respiratory disorders.

Define Sandstorm

A sandstorm refers to a high amount of wind occurring in sandy areas, usually in deserts, where sand is blown up in the air causing low visibility. These can cause abrasive damage to surfaces and pose significant transportation difficulties.

Identify Major Differences

The major differences can be identified in terms of particle size, the kind of damage they can cause, and where they occur. Dust storms can pick up smaller particles located on dry surfaces and are more common in arid and semi-arid regions. They can also cause more health problems due to the inhalation of dust. On the other hand, sandstorms pick up larger grains of sand, are typically restricted to desert areas, and can cause more physical damage due to the abrasiveness of the sand particles.

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Differentiate between a dust storm and a sandstorm.

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Define Dust Storm

Define Sandstorm

Identify Major Differences

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