Aeolian Sand Ripples

Wind-driven sand self-organizes into periodic ripple patterns via saltation

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Aeolian ripples form when wind entrains sand grains via saltation — grains bounce along the surface, dislodging others on impact. Small surface irregularities grow: windward slopes are eroded, leeward slopes receive deposition. The characteristic spacing (shadow zone / reptation length) emerges naturally. On Mars, orbital images show vast fields of sand ripples and dunes.