What type of sand dunes are formed where winds blow from a constant direction?

Transverse dunes are formed in environments where winds consistently blow from a single direction, creating a series of ridges that run perpendicular to the wind flow. These dunes typically develop when there is an abundant supply of sand, and the steady wind pushes the sand up the windward side of the dune, causing it to crest and then spill down the leeward side. The uniformity of the wind direction leads to the characteristic shape of transverse dunes, which are often long narrow ridges that can stretch for miles.

In contrast, barchan dunes are crescent-shaped and also form from a unidirectional wind flow but are typically found in areas with limited sand supply. Star dunes, on the other hand, arise in environments where winds blow from multiple directions, leading to a more complex shape. Parabolic dunes are formed in areas with vegetation and occur when wind creates arms that point downwind, usually developing in a coastal area or grasslands. Therefore, the characteristics of the environment and wind direction are crucial in distinguishing between these types of sand dunes.