Chapter 10: Problem 8

How does changing Earth's surface (for example, by deforestation) change the pathway of water? How does it affect streams and rivers? Humans? Natural ecology?

Short Answer

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Deforestation changes the pathway of water by reducing absorption and evapotranspiration, increasing soil and surface runoff. This results in increased and faster discharge to streams and rivers, potentially causing flooding and sediment erosion. Effects on humans include flood risks, water contamination, and water supply unpredictability. For natural ecology, impacts include reduced soil fertility due to nutrient wash off and habitat destruction for aquatic life.

Step by step solution

Impact on Water Pathways

When trees are removed from a forest, the rainwater that previously would have been absorbed by the trees or would have evaporated from their leaves directly enters the soil or surface runoff. As a result, the pathways of water change significantly.

Effect on Streams and Rivers

With more water in the soil and surface runoff, there is higher discharge to local streams and rivers. This can lead to more instances of flooding and increased sediment erosion into these water bodies. Water could also reach them faster than it does in a forested area.

Impact on Humans

Humans can be affected by these changes in a variety of ways. These include increased risk of flooding, sediment contamination in drinking water sources, and increased unpredictability in water supply.

Impact on Natural Ecology

Ecologically, deforestation can lead to reduced soil fertility as nutrients are washed away. It can also cause habitat destruction for aquatic life due to sediment deposition in rivers and streams. Some species may not be able to survive the changes in water flow and cleanliness.

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How does changing Earth's surface (for example, by deforestation) change the pathway of water? How does it affect streams and rivers? Humans? Natural ecology?

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Impact on Water Pathways

Effect on Streams and Rivers

Impact on Humans

Impact on Natural Ecology

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