Land development accelerates the erosion process due to which of the following factors?

Land development accelerates the erosion process for several interconnected reasons, all of which highlight critical aspects of how construction activities impact the landscape.

When construction takes place, the process often leads to soil compaction, which significantly inhibits the absorption of rainfall. Compacted soils reduce the capacity for water infiltration, resulting in surface water runoff. This increased runoff can lead to elevated levels of soil erosion as water moves overland, picking up soil particles and transporting them away.

Furthermore, during construction, drainage areas may be enlarged, which can lead to increased runoff velocities. With larger drainage areas, water is able to flow more rapidly, which enhances the potential for erosion. Fast-moving water has more energy to dislodge and carry soil particles away from their original locations, contributing to a greater erosion risk.

Lastly, the removal of vegetation is another crucial factor. Vegetation serves as a natural barrier that helps to diffuse the force of raindrops, reducing their impact on the soil surface. Additionally, plant roots help to stabilize the soil and hold it in place. Without this vegetative cover, the soil becomes more vulnerable to erosion as it is exposed to direct precipitation and surface runoff.

Therefore, all these factors—soil compaction, increased runoff velocities due to enlarged drainage areas