You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.
The flow chart illustrates the consequence of deforestation. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features.
Write at least 150 words
model answer:
The flow chart shows what typically occurs as a consequence of deforestation. When trees are removed, there are four main immediate effects, which eventually result in flooding, degraded vegetation and a loss of biodiversity.
One immediate effect is soil which has been compacted by heavy equipment. The result hard, ‘baked’ soil contributes to the run off of rain water and, eventually, flooding.
Another immediate consequence of logging is a reduction in the number of roots holding the soil together. This leads to soil erosion. As a consequence, the quality and variety of vegetation is compromised.
The third immediate effect is burning, both deliberate and a consequence of an increased risk of forest fires. The waste that remains after loggings is destroyed and the microorganisms that feed on this material are lost. This leads to degraded vegetation.
The final immediate consequence is a reduction in the amount of moisture plants return to the air. Because there is less moisture in the air, there is less precipitation and an increased incidence of drought. This too reduces plant growth and ultimately results in degraded vegetation and a loss of biodiversity.