Dust storms are very common in deserts. The soil gets very dry and dusty. Therefore, very little plants can grow. Without plants to hold the soil down, it starts to blow around with the wind. This can cause large dust storms. Also, the wind can blow the sand up. When sand blows with the wind, it becomes like a cutting blade. When it rubs against rocks, it causes some of the rock to detach and blow with the wind. Over time, as this happens, the rock becomes smaller and smaller.
How do Sediments Move?
Small sediments and larger sediments move in different ways. Smaller sediments move by a process called suspension. They are blown into the air. Because the pieces a so light, they may stay in the air for days. Larger
sediments move by another process which is called Saltation. Because the pieces are heavier, they can't stay in the air for as long. The have to move by short hops. The sediments stay close to the ground. Any sediments that are larger than sand have to move by creep. Creeping is where the pieces are pushed wile staying on the ground.