What does the K factor represent regarding soil?

The K factor, or the Soil erodibility factor, specifically indicates the susceptibility of soil to erosion, particularly from rainfall and surface runoff. It is a crucial component of the Universal Soil Loss Equation (USLE), which is used to estimate soil erosion rates and identify areas at risk for erosion. The value of the K factor reflects the inherent properties of the soil, including texture, structure, and organic matter content, all of which influence how easily soil particles can be detached and transported by water.

In this context, the K factor is not directly measuring runoff or the rate of organic matter, resistance to erosion, or soil moisture levels, but rather it quantifies how susceptible a specific type of soil is to erosion under specific conditions. This makes it a vital factor for erosion and sediment control practices, helping engineers and soil conservationists develop effective strategies to minimize erosion in vulnerable areas.