Modeling two-dimensional erosion process over infiltrating surfaces

Abstract

The physics-based modeling of the rainfall-runoff induced erosion process is accomplished. The existing one-dimensional erosion process equations are extended to two dimensions and kinematic wave approximation is used. The model assumes that suspended sediment does not affect flow dynamics. The model considers the effect of flow depth plus loose soil depth on soil detachment. Sensitivity analysis results indicate that the effects of the soil erodibility coefficient (η) and exponent (k1) on sediment discharges are quite pronounced. On steep slopes, the effect of flow depth plus loose soil depth on sediment discharge is insignificant.