The role of playas in pedogenic gypsum crust formation in the central Namib Desert : a theoretical model

Auteurs :
ECKARDT, F.D.
DRAKE, N.
GOUDIE, A.S.
WHITE, K.
VILES, H.A.

Description :
The formation of Namibia's extensive pedogenic gypsum crusts is interpreted in a new light. It is suggested that gypsum primarily precipates at isolated points of evaporitic concentration, such as inland playas, and that deflation of evaporitic-rich gypsum dust from these playas contributes to the formation of pedogenic gypsum duricrusts on the coastal gravel plains of the Namib Desert surrounding these playas. This study establishes the nature, extent and distribution of playas in the Central Namib Desert and provides evidence for playa gypsum deflation and gravel plain deposition.


Type de document :
Article de périodique

Source :
Earth surface processes and landforms, issn : 0197-9337, 2001, vol. 26, n°. 11, p. 1177-1193, nombre de pages : 17, Collation : Illustration, Références bibliographiques : 62 ref.

Date :
2001

Editeur :
Pays édition : Royaume-Uni, Chichester, Wiley