It appears as if more recent channels in the alluvial fan complex shown below are lighter in color than the general surface of the fan.What geologic process could have caused this effect?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The removal of desert-varnished clasts during the formation of channels would expose lighter colored material, causing the more recent channels to appear lighter in color compared to the general surface of the fan. Option B is unlikely as it suggests that plant growth only occurs in areas between recent channels, which is not always the case. Option C is unlikely as it suggests that a large amount of dark-colored material was transported out of the canyons during recent storms, which is not supported by the information provided in the image. Option D is not a plausible explanation for the lighter color of the recent channels in the alluvial fan complex.

It Appears as If More Recent Channels in the Alluvial