Question 1: Define deforestation and list three primary causes.

Answer: Deforestation is the clearing or removal of forests, often for agriculture, logging, or urban development.

Question 2: Explain how deforestation affects biodiversity.

Answer: Deforestation reduces habitats for many species, leading to decreased biodiversity and possible extinction of some organisms.

Question 3: What is the main ecological role of forests in carbon cycling?

Answer: Forests act as carbon sinks by absorbing carbon dioxide during photosynthesis, helping regulate Earth's climate.

Question 4: Calculate the amount of carbon dioxide (in metric tons) absorbed annually by a forest that covers 50 square kilometers, assuming an average absorption rate of 20 metric tons per square kilometer per year.

Answer: 1000 metric tons

Question 5: Identify three environmental consequences of deforestation beyond loss of biodiversity.

Answer: Increased soil erosion, reduced rainfall, and climate change due to higher greenhouse gas levels.

Question 6: Which of the following is NOT a common cause of deforestation?

Answer: Reforestation efforts

Question 7: Fill in the blank: Deforestation contributes to climate change primarily because it increases the amount of __________ in the atmosphere.

Answer: carbon dioxide

Question 8: Describe a simple experimental setup to measure the rate of soil erosion caused by deforestation.

Answer: Set up two plots of identical size, one with trees and one cleared of vegetation. Measure soil loss over a fixed period using markers or sediment collection containers, ensuring similar slope and rainfall conditions. Record and compare soil loss to determine the effect of deforestation.

Question 9: Interpret the following scenario: A region experiences a 30% decrease in forest cover over a decade. Discuss the potential impacts on local climate and wildlife.

Answer: The reduction in forest cover may lead to increased temperatures due to less shade and evapotranspiration, decreased rainfall, and loss of habitats for native wildlife, potentially resulting in local climate shifts and declines in species diversity.