saltation
Grains in wind
Saltation is movement by leaps or jumps rather than continuous motion.
In geology, it describes how wind or water moves particles—sand grains bouncing along a riverbed or desert floor.
In biology, saltation refers to evolutionary change through sudden large mutations rather than gradual steps.
The adjective is saltatory: saltatory conduction describes how nerve impulses jump between gaps in a neuron's insulation.
Propel oneself airborne
- leapSudden springing movement
- hopSmall, quick jump
- boundSecured or destined
- springRecoiling metal spiral
skip · bounce · vault · hurdle · frog · kangaroo · grasshopper · springtail
Wind-formed sand ridges
- sandblastingCleaning surfaces with pressurized grit
- deflationSustained decrease in prices
- windblownDisplaced by gusts
- sandFine rock particles
grains · transport · deposition · abrasion · loess · ripples · creep · suspension
Classical dance on pointe
- tangoLatin ballroom with sharp stops
- salsaSpicy tomato condiment
- waltzDance in three-quarter time
- foxtrotSmooth partner dance
ballroom · flamenco · jive · rumba · samba · mambo · cha-cha · swing
Formation of distinct species
- macroevolutionEvolutionary change above species
- gradualismPhilosophy of incremental change
- discontinuousHaving breaks or gaps
- phylogenyEvolutionary relationships among organisms
jump
Propel oneself airborne
spring · skip · bounce · vault · hurdle · frog · kangaroo · grasshopper · springtail · pounce
dunes
Wind-formed sand ridges
- sandblastingCleaning surfaces with pressurized grit
- deflationSustained decrease in prices
- windblownDisplaced by gusts
sand · grains · transport · deposition · abrasion · loess · ripples · creep · suspension · desert
ballet
Classical dance on pointe
foxtrot · ballroom · flamenco · jive · rumba · samba · mambo · cha-cha · swing · boogie
speciation
Formation of distinct species
- macroevolutionEvolutionary change above species
- gradualismPhilosophy of incremental change
- discontinuousHaving breaks or gaps
rapid change · phylogeny · mutation · stasis · evolutionary leap