Step 1: Universal Soil Loss Equation.
The equation A = R × K × L × S × C × P calculates average annual soil loss, with each parameter representing a factor influencing erosion.
Step 2: The 'K' Factor.
- 'K' signifies the soil erodibility factor.
- It quantifies how easily soil particles detach and are transported by rainfall and runoff.
- Key determinants include soil texture, structure, organic matter content, and permeability.
Step 3: Other Factors Explained.
- R = Rainfall erosivity factor
- L = Slope length factor
- S = Slope steepness factor
- C = Cover and management factor
- P = Conservation practice factor
Step 4: Option Analysis.
- (A) Slope length is represented by 'L', not 'K'.
- (B) Slope steepness is denoted by 'S'.
- (C) Cover and management is represented by 'C'.
- (D) Soil erodibility factor is correctly represented by 'K'.
Step 5: Conclusion.
In the soil loss equation, 'K' denotes the soil erodibility factor.