5
QuizMultiple Choice

Deciduous Forests

Question 5 • Environmental Science A

If the number of trees on earth continues to decrease significantly, what might be the result?

Answer
A
less oxygen released into the atmosphere and more CO2 buildup; erosion could occur without the tree roots to hold the earth in place; loss of habitat of many animals and diversity could decrease
B
balance of nitrogen and phosphorus in the ecosystem and the movement of water through the ecosystem could be thrown out of balance
C
a and b
D
none of the above

Explanation

A significant decrease in trees can reduce the oxygen released and allow more carbon dioxide to build up. Without tree roots to hold soil in place, erosion may increase, and animals can lose habitat, reducing biodiversity. Trees also affect nutrient cycles, including nitrogen and phosphorus, and the movement of water through ecosystems. Since both a and b describe possible effects, the best answer is “a and b.”

AI-written and checked against the verified answer.

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