What is sheet erosion? How is it different from gully erosion? Mention one measure to control each.
Generated by claude-sonnet-4-6 · 2026-06-26 13:28 · grounding rag
Model Answer
Sheet erosion occurs when water flows as a sheet over large areas down a slope, washing away the top layer of soil uniformly.
Gully erosion occurs when running water cuts through clayey soil, forming deep channels called gullies, making land unfit for cultivation (called ravines in the Chambal basin).
Difference: Sheet erosion removes topsoil over a wide, flat surface, while gully erosion cuts deep channels into the soil.
Control measures:
- Sheet erosion: Contour ploughing (ploughing along contour lines slows water flow down slopes).
- Gully erosion: Terrace cultivation (cutting steps on slopes restricts water flow and erosion).
Source: Resources and Development, Soil Erosion and Soil Conservation
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Explanation
- Examiners expect a clear definition of both types, a stated difference, and one distinct measure for each — all three elements carry marks.
- The definitions and measures are taken directly from the textbook passage; use the exact terms (contour ploughing, terrace cultivation, ravines, bad land) as they are likely to be in the answer key.
- Do not confuse sheet and gully erosion — sheet is surface/horizontal, gully is deep/vertical cutting.