Saltation

/sælˈteɪʃən/ noun

Definition

The action of leaping or dancing; in geology, the bouncing movement of particles carried by wind or water; in evolution, a sudden dramatic mutation.

Etymology

From Latin 'saltatio' (dancing), from 'saltare' (to dance/leap). Sand grains DANCE across deserts, molecules LEAP between states, and evolution sometimes JUMPS instead of crawling.

Kelly Says

Sand DANCES across the desert! Literally — geologists call the bouncing movement of sand grains 'saltation' because each grain leaps like a tiny ballet dancer! Even evolution sometimes JUMPS instead of inching along! 🏜️💃

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