Question

In the universal soil loss equation A=RKLSCP, letter 'K' denotes for-

• A. Slope length
• B. Slope steepness factor
• C. Cover and management factor
• D. Soil erodibility factor

Hint:

Soil erodibility (K) is higher in fine-textured soils like silts and lowest in coarse sandy soils.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Universal soil loss equation.
The equation A = R × K × L × S × C × P estimates average annual soil loss.
Each parameter represents a factor affecting erosion.
Step 2: Role of 'K'.
- 'K' stands for soil erodibility factor.
- It represents the susceptibility of soil particles to detachment and transport by rainfall and runoff.
- It depends on soil texture, structure, organic matter, and permeability.
Step 3: Meaning of other factors.
- R = Rainfall erosivity factor
- L = Slope length factor
- S = Slope steepness factor
- C = Cover and management factor
- P = Conservation practice factor
Step 4: Analysis of options.
- (A) Slope length: Denoted by 'L', not 'K'.
- (B) Slope steepness: Denoted by 'S'.
- (C) Cover and management: Denoted by 'C'.
- (D) Soil erodibility factor: Correct, represented by 'K'.
Step 5: Conclusion.
Thus, in the soil loss equation, 'K' indicates soil erodibility factor.