Laboratory Manual for Introductory Geology 4e

EXERCISE 16.3
Interpreting Arid Landscapes (continued)
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(b) Compare this region with Figure 16.3. Is there a single fault block, as in Figure 16.3a, or several blocks, as in
Figure 16.3d? Explain your reasoning.
(c) Sketch in the border fault(s) with a colored pencil on both the map view and the profile in Figure 16.4.
(d) Why is Death Valley lower in elevation than the other major valleys shown in the topographic profile? Consider
factors that played roles in forming the valley, such as stream erosion and tectonic activity.
Now examine Death Valley more closely, starting with the Stovepipe Wells area (FIG. 16.5).
(e) What are the broad, rounded landforms that project into Death Valley from the mountains to the west and
southeast? How did they form?
(f) Several streams flow into Death Valley from these mountains. Where do they go? What is their base level?
(g) A stippled pattern identifies areas of rapidly moving sand dunes. Where did this sand come from?
(h) A more detailed view of the sand areas would show individual dunes, but these would not be accurate
representations of the current land surface. Why not?
(continued )
16.3 PROGRESSIVE EVOLUTION OF ARID LANDSCAPES
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