Topographic Dependence of Cropland Transformation in China during the First Decade of the 21st Century

Table 1

Slope rating and characteristics.

Slope	Characteristics
0–5°	Low slope, gentle incline, smooth water movement, little soil erosion, optimal slope condition for agricultural cultivation.
5–15°	Medium slope, motive force and gravity effects increased, water movement accelerated, corrosion and soil erosion increased but not severe. Better slope condition for farming.
15–25°	Abrupt slope, erosion and block movement relatively intense, soil erosion relatively severe, just able for cultivation, upper limit condition for cultivation, but farming benefit is not well.
Above 25°	Steep slope, rain erosion and block movement intensified with slope increased, strong corrosion, severe soil and water loss, soil layer get thinner and bare rocks increased, unsuitable for cultivation but well enough for developing forestry and sideline.