Question 1: Define deforestation and explain its primary causes in tropical rainforests.

Answer: Deforestation is the removal or clearing of large areas of forest, primarily caused by logging, agriculture, and urban development.

Question 2: List three ecological consequences of deforestation.

Answer: Loss of biodiversity, disruption of water cycles, and increased carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere.

Question 1: Describe how deforestation can lead to soil erosion.

Answer: Removing trees reduces root stability, making soil more susceptible to being washed or blown away by rain and wind.

Question 2: Explain the effect of deforestation on local water cycles.

Answer: Deforestation reduces transpiration and canopy cover, leading to decreased rainfall and altered water flow in the area.

Question 1: A section of rainforest has 10,000 square kilometres of forest in 2000. Due to deforestation, only 7,500 square kilometres remain in 2020. Calculate the percentage decrease in forest area over this period.

Answer: 25%

Question 1: Suggest a method to investigate the impact of deforestation on local bird populations. Include variables to control and safety precautions.

Answer: Students could compare bird populations in forested and deforested areas by conducting surveys, controlling variables such as time of day and habitat type. Safety precautions include wearing protective clothing, avoiding dangerous wildlife, and handling equipment carefully.

Question 1: In a region, the population of a particular tree species declined by 60% over 15 years due to deforestation. Discuss the potential ecological impacts of this decline.

Answer: The decline could lead to reduced habitat for species dependent on that tree, decreased biodiversity, and disruption of ecological balance. It may also affect carbon sequestration and local climate regulation.

Question 1: Describe how reforestation and afforestation can help mitigate the effects of deforestation. Include potential challenges.

Answer: Reforestation and afforestation involve planting trees to restore lost forests, which can improve biodiversity, stabilize soil, and reduce atmospheric CO2. Challenges include land availability, funding, maintaining biodiversity, and ensuring suitable species are planted.