Surface-based aeolian stratigraphy

Abstract:

Aeolian dune stratification arises from the migration, interaction and deformation of bedforms
driven by an allogenic forcing. Recognizing the contribution of bedform deformation and interaction on
the architecture of aeolian dune deposits is helpful for reconstruction of ancient dune morphology and
wind circulation. Surface-based aeolian stratigraphy is generated by translating a surface model of
dynamic bedform topography through space. The surface model of bedform topography responds
realistically to allogenic signals and captures the growth and motion of bedform migration, deformation
and interaction. The regular and irregular dynamic motions of bed geometry are distinctly encoded into
the geometry of stratigraphic surfaces within the synthetic volume. Criteria for the recognition of
stratigraphic surfaces originating from the passage of bedform defects and deformation accrued by
bedform interactions are presented.