What type of erosion involves small channels forming as water flows over land?

The type of erosion characterized by the formation of small channels as water flows over the land is known as rill erosion. This process occurs when water subtly accumulates enough energy to create tiny furrows in the soil surface, typically on slopes. As water runs over the surface, it gathers sediment and carves out these small channels, which can further develop into larger rills if the conditions persist. Rill erosion is often more pronounced in areas where the soil is loose or loose sediment is present, and it can significantly impact soil health and landscape by removing the topsoil.

Gully erosion represents a more advanced stage of erosion, resulting in larger, deeper channels and more significant landscape alteration. Sheet erosion, on the other hand, involves the uniform removal of a thin layer of soil over a broad area, while splash erosion refers to the detachment of soil particles by the impact of raindrops. Thus, rill erosion specifically highlights the channelized flow of water that directly contributes to the formation of small, distinct troughs in the land.