Evaluation of Terrain Units in Wadi Al-Rameemin Basin, Jordan Using Factor Analysis

Abstract

Objectives: This study aimed to identify the main terrain units in Wadi Al-Rameemin Basin, analyze the distinguishing characteristics of each terrain unit, and interpret the spatial variation factors responsible for the observed diversity.

Methods: The study employed a descriptive, experimental, and quantitative approach. It utilized 18 variables based on the Dutch ITC survey system. Factor Analysis was applied to condense these variables into specific factors and determine the factor loading of each variable, revealing the proportion of variance explained by each factor (Eigen Values).

Results: The study classified the terrain units into 32 unit similar units in geological, topographical, climatic, vegetation and soil characteristics, and suggested that 4 factors explained more than 70.6% of the total variance of the spatial variation of the terrain units. The first factor explained 24.9%, the second factor explained 22.9%, the third factor explained 14.1% and the fourth factor explained 8.7% of the total expositor variance. The terrain units were divided into four groups represented the characteristics of terrain unit which was determined by natural resources. It named the first factor by topography, the second by soil characteristics, the third by natural hazards and the fourth by morphology.

Conclusions: The study highlights the importance of focusing on environmental hazards in the basin, such as landslides and erosion, and implementing forest conservation programs through afforestation to preserve both vegetation and soil.