transverse dune

/ trăns-vûrs′,trăns′vûrs′ /

A large, strongly asymmetrical, elongated dune lying at right angles to the prevailing wind direction. Transverse dunes have a gently sloping windward side and a steeply sloping leeward side. They generally form in areas of sparse vegetation and abundant sand. Most beach dunes are transverse dunes.
See illustration at duneCompare longitudinal dune

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April 18, 2024petrichor

[pet-ri-kawr]

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