Everything Everywhere Daily All About Sand
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Dec 15, 2024 Sand is far more than just a beach companion; it's the second most consumed resource after water! Discover how it's formed through weathering and erosion, and learn about bizarre types like the singing sand dunes. The podcast delves into the paradox of sand's global abundance versus a critical shortage of suitable types for construction. It also sheds light on the dark side of sand mining, revealing its ties to organized crime and significant environmental impacts, showcasing the complex reality behind this seemingly simple substance.
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Sand Definition
- Sand isn't a specific substance, but rather a classification of sedimentary particles within a specific size range.
- The Wentworth Scale categorizes these particles, with sand falling between 0.0625 and 2 millimeters in diameter.
Sand Formation
- Sand formation involves weathering, the breakdown of rocks, and erosion, the movement of those particles.
- Weathering happens physically, chemically, and biologically, while erosion uses forces like water, wind, and ice.
Quartz Sand
- Quartz is the most common mineral in sand due to its hardness and resistance to weathering.
- Quartz sand is often found on beaches and deserts, particularly in areas with continental crust.