Classification and identification of marl erodibility indicators in Esfahan Province

Marl formations have problems in watersheds due to high sediment yield. The purpose of this research is the marls classification of Isfahan province according to erodibility indices and their physical and chemical properties. In this regard, region marl units were identified and their sediment yield was measured using rainfall simulator. Then, based on erosion type, they were sampled and soil physical and chemical properties were analyzed. Cluster analysis statistical method was used to classify marl units. Statistical analysis was performed by three sets of data including chemical, physical and both chemical and physical accompanied by slope and measured sediment from six mmh-1 rainfall in each step of the analysis. Results showed that the most important similarity factors in marls are chemical properties and the effect of climate. According to information obtained from investigations, climate is the most effective factor of differences among marl units in this province. In addition to its direct impact on creation and evolution of marls, it affects on other parameters directly and indirectly and choosing either of these parameters is related to climate.