ABSTRACT
The Loess Plateau is the deepest loess deposit, the largest area of a loess plateau and the most typical and unique distinctive geomorphic unit of loess in the world. It is known as one of the most erodible areas on earth. There are many factors affecting erosion on the Loess Plateau, but precipitation is the driving force. The rainfall characteristics of the Loess Plateau are that the total amount of rainfall is low, the distribution within the year is not homogeneous: winters are dry, spring is droughty, rainfall is high in the summer and less in the fall. This paper deals with the loss of soil nutrients on the Loess Plateau as affected by rainfall. Raindrop energy is the force that causes soil erosion and nutrient loss. In the Loess Plateau, soil erosion is the key factor affecting the loss of soil nutrients. Finally, this paper discusses the theory to let rain infiltrate directly, which can prevent erosion on the Loess Plateau.
