Deflation is the lifting and removal of loose particles of soil from the surface of the ground. This can occur when strong winds blow across a dry, exposed area of land. Deflation can cause the formation of sand dunes, which are mounds of sand that are formed by the accumulation of windblown sand.

Abrasion is the wearing away of the surface of the ground by the impact of windblown sand and dust particles. This can occur when strong winds carry sand and dust particles across the land, and the particles collide with the surface of the ground. Abrasion can cause the formation of rock pedestals, which are isolated columns of rock that remain standing after the surrounding softer rock has been eroded away.