Abstract
Greater understanding of the basic processes of hillslope erosion, infiltration, runoff and nutrient removal can be achieved by using rainfall simulators. The modified Kamphorst simulator provides a simple, cost-effective way to teach students the dynamics of earth surface processes that shape our landscapes. The exercise described here can be adapted for use in introductory or advanced earth science courses, or it can be expanded to form the basis of a bachelor's dissertation. The simulator allows the student to examine the controls on interrill erosion rates such as slope angle and rainfall intensity. Continuous measurement of runoff at a known rainfall intensity can be used to estimate infiltration rate, a concept that is exceedingly difficult to teach. The measurement of transported aggregates and associated organic matter provides students with an appreciation for preferential transport and illustrates the concept of enrichment ratios.
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