In the RUSLE equation, 'P' stands for

• A. Erosion control factor
• B. Runoff coefficient
• C. Rainfall erosivity
• D. Management operations and support practices

Answer: (D)

In the RUSLE equation, P accounts for the effect of management and support practices on soil erosion. It represents how conservation measures—like contour farming, terracing, strip cropping, and other practices—reduce erosion. The equation multiplies R, K, LS, C, and P to estimate soil loss, with P scaling the result based on the specific practices used. Lower P values indicate stronger erosion control from these practices. The other terms correspond to different factors: rainfall erosivity (R) energy of the rain, soil erodibility (K) how easily soil erodes, slope length/steepness (LS), and cover-management (C). So the option describing management operations and support practices is the correct one.