The subaerial origin of mantle deposits

The authors deal with the problems of the origin of mantle formations consisting of loams and sandy loams that occur on the surface of Central and Eastern Europe. The loams are usually considered periglacial deposits; however, the authors have developed a new theory on the origin of these formations. In their opinion loams developed as a result of deposition of atmospheric dust. The new theory is supported by measurements of dust fall mainly on glaciers in the Caucasus and in Central Asia. The measurements correspond favorably with the absolute age of humus in the soils of the Russkaya ravnina (Lowland). Recently, dust fall has increased owing to activities by man. The increase disturbs the equilibrium in the subaerial lithogenesis — soil development system and therefore more attention should be given to this phenomenon.