Geologists best estimate the shear stress applied to erosion by wind by measuring
A) the depth of the air mass.
B) the density of the air mass.
C) the average particle size carried by the wind.
D) the velocity of the wind.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Geologists can best estimate the shear stress applied to erosion by wind by measuring the velocity of the wind. Shear stress is directly proportional to the velocity of the wind, so the faster the wind is moving, the more shear stress it will apply to erode the surface it is blowing over. Therefore, the velocity of the wind is the most important factor in determining the erosive power of wind.

Geologists Best Estimate the Shear Stress Applied to Erosion by Wind