Question

What causes winds? list any 2 methodsof preventing soil erosion?

Answer 1

Wind is caused by differences in the atmospheric pressure. When a difference in atmospheric pressure exists, air moves from the higher to the lower pressure area, resulting in winds of various speeds. On a rotating planet, air will also be deflected by the Coriolis effect, except exactly on the equator. Globally, the two major driving factors of large-scale wind patterns (the atmospheric circulation) are the differential heating between the equator and the poles (difference in absorption of solar energyleading to buoyancy forces) and the rotation of the planet. Outside the tropics and aloft from frictional effects of the surface, the large-scale winds tend to approach geostrophic balance. Near the Earth's surface, friction causes the wind to be slower than it would be otherwise. Surface friction also causes winds to blow more inward into low-pressure areas.


Simple Solutions to Prevent Soil Erosion

Good news! By applying some relatively simple steps, you can control and prevent soil erosion! The four most common soil erosion prevention methods are vegetation, geotextiles, mulch, and retaining walls. Preventing soil erosion is critical in protecting your property and exposed soil, whether from wind, weather, running water, and even the after-affects of forest fire.

Vegetation: The simplest and most natural way to prevent erosion is through planting vegetation. Plants establish root systems, which stabilizes soil and prevents soil erosion.

Geotextiles: Using geotextiles is an effective method because it also stabilizes soil. When used in conjunction with growing vegetation, it is even more effective. There are three main types of geotextiles: woven,nonwoven, and coir.

Mulch/Fertilizer: Applying a layer of mulch to the soil top allows the soil to slowly soak up water, as it protects against rain impact, and restores pH levels helping with erosion prevention.

Retaining Walls: Retaining walls can be built around the area of erosion to prevent water run off. Runoff water leads to further erosion, and if used with other methods, retaining walls can be a very effective way to prevent soil erosion.