Abstract
ABSTRACT Sensitivity analysis was performed on the hillslope profile erosion model developed by the USDA-Water Erosion Prediction Project. The erosion model calculates soil loss and sediment yield caused by rill and interrill erosion on complex shaped hillslope profiles. Sensitivity analysis of a physically based simulation model is used for assessing the rationality of the model, to provide insight into the overall physical system which the simulation model represents, and to help identify research needs. Changes in predicted soil erosion and sediment yield as a function of changes in soil, plant residue and canopy, hillslope topography, and hydrologic input variables were assessed. Dominant factors related to model response were precipitation, rill erodibility, rill residue cover, and rill hydraulic friction factors. Saturated hydraulic conductivity and interrill erodibility were moderately sensitive parameters. Other factors which had less influence on output were canopy height, interrill cover, soil bulk density, antecedent moisture, peak rainfall intensity, time to pe^ rainfall intensity, rill width and spacing, and sediment characteristics. Slope length, gradient, and slope shape effects on soil loss and sediment delivery were also discussed.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
