Final answer:
The process where wind blasts sand at rocks, carving out shapes like arches is known as wind erosion. This type of physical weathering occurs not only on Earth but also on other planets like Mars. The power of the wind can move sand and other particles, slowly carving out shapes in rock.
Step-by-step explanation:
The phenomenon you're asking about is known as wind erosion, which is a type of physical weathering and shaping of the landscape. This process occurs not only on Earth but on other planets too, like Mars. Wind can be a powerful force, capable of moving sand and other small particles. Over time, these blasting particles can slowly carve out shapes in rocks, creating remarkable features like arches. On Mars, for example, high winds can shroud the entire planet with windblown dust and contribute to the creation of features like yardangs - long straight ridges formed by wind erosion. Powerful windstorms can strip the surface of its loose, fine dust, leaving the rock exposed and susceptible to further erosion | figures 10.23 & 10.24. In the absence of surface water, wind erosion plays a major role in sculpting the Martian surface.
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