Which factors contribute to soil erosion?

Soil erosion is primarily influenced by factors that disturb the soil and facilitate its removal from one location to another. Water flow, wind, and lack of vegetation cover are significant contributors to erosion processes.

Water flow can cause both surface runoff and the movement of soil particles, particularly during heavy rainfall events or when the soil is saturated. As water flows over the ground, it can dislodge soil particles and transport them downstream, contributing to erosion.

Wind is another powerful force, especially in arid and semi-arid regions, where it can lift and carry loose soil particles, leading to the degradation of the soil surface. Areas that lack vegetation coverage are particularly susceptible, as plants typically anchor the soil and protect it from the physical forces of water and wind.

Moreover, insufficient vegetation means there is less root structure to hold soil in place, making it easier for erosion to occur. Thus, the combination of these three factors—water flow, wind action, and the absence of plant cover—is critical in understanding soil erosion dynamics.

In contrast, the other options presented do not directly address mechanisms that lead to soil erosion. While aspects such as pH, organic matter, porosity, and soil compaction play roles in soil health and quality, they are not