On the periglacial character of the Ukrainian loesses

Abstract

Ukrainian loesses, traditionally regarded as glacio-aeolian or glaciofluvial deposits, require a new interpretation of their origin, structure and properties. Recent studies indicate their periglacial genesis, in which mechanical, chemical and biological weathering processes, as well as conditions of transport and accumulation, played a crucial role. The analysis of loess horizons, their lithological features and the presence of periglacial structures confirms that the loesses are associated with cyclic climatic changes during the Pleistocene.