my conclusions are either glacial or solar
Huge piles of sand are called sand dunes. Sand dunes typically form in deserts or coastal areas where there are strong winds that shape and move the sand into these large structures.
Wind and waves form sand dunes on the beach
Fore dunes and back dunes but mostly fore dunes.
barchan dunes
weathering
The Gobi Desert primarily features cold desert conditions, characterized by harsh temperatures and minimal precipitation. Within this desert, you can find various types of sand dunes, including crescent-shaped barchan dunes and linear dunes. These dunes form due to the prevailing winds and the limited vegetation in the region, contributing to the unique landscape of the Gobi.
Sand dunes and loess deposits are two types of deposits formed by wind erosion and deposition. Sand dunes are hills of sand that form in areas with strong winds, while loess deposits are fine, wind-blown sediment that accumulates over time to create thick layers of fertile soil.
barchan dunes
Wind erosion and deposition may form sand dunes and loess deposits. When the wind strikes an obstacle, the result is usually a sand dune!
Hot deserts
crescentic dune linear dune star dune dome dune parabolic dune
The Sahara Desert features several types of sand dunes, with the most prominent being crescent-shaped barchan dunes, which form in areas with limited sand supply and steady winds. Linear dunes, or seif dunes, are also common, appearing as long ridges aligned with prevailing wind directions. Additionally, star dunes, characterized by multiple arms radiating from a central point, can be found where wind directions vary. Finally, dome dunes, which are less common, have a more rounded shape and form in stable wind conditions.