In this paper, we present an analysis on the mechanism of dust emission and describe a new model for the prediction of dust emission rate caused by saltation bombardment, based on the volume removal by impacting sand grains as they plough into the soil surface. The model predicts a relationship between the removed volume V and the particle impacting velocity U of the form V∝Un, with n=2~3. The dust emission rate is found to be proportional to u*n+1, where u* is friction velocity. These model predictions are consistent with wind tunnel and field observations. The model offers a new interpretation of observed data and a simple scheme for the calculation of dust emission. ¿ 1999 American Geophysical Union