What is the term for when sand grains are bounced up the beach by wind?

The term that describes when sand grains are bounced up the beach by wind is saltation. In this process, grains of sand and other small particles are lifted off the surface, typically due to wind, and then fall back to the ground after traveling a short distance. This bouncing action is crucial for the erosion and transport of sediment along coastal areas and dunes.

Understanding saltation is important because it illustrates one of the primary mechanisms of sediment movement in arid and coastal environments. This process plays a significant role in shaping landscapes and can contribute to the formation of features such as dunes. Additionally, recognizing this term helps differentiate it from other forms of sediment movement, such as suspension, where smaller particles are carried in the air without making contact with the surface, and traction, where larger sediment clings to the ground and is rolled or dragged along.