ABSTRACT
Soil erosion by water occurs due to complex interactions of subprocesses of detachment and transport of soil materials by raindrop impact and overland flow and of deposition. Single drop studies have examined shapes of raindrops, forces of raindrop impact, and reaction of soil to the impact forces. Waterdrop impact forces are highly dependent upon drop size and shape and fall height. Numerous attempts have been made to measure or model the reaction of the soil to waterdrop impact forces or to relate soil variables to waterdrop splash. Several techniques have been used to measure splash under natural conditions or multiple-raindrop simulators. Antecedent soil water plays an important role in controlling splash detachment through its effects on soil resistance to raindrop impact and the magnitude and mechanisms of aggregate breakdown on the soil surface. Future plans include using a large database on splash detachment, interrill sediment transport, soil and sediment properties, and rainfall characteristics to develop a processed-based, interrill erosion model.
