Pennsylvania Junior Envirothon Practice Test

The significant effect of deforestation is the loss of habitat and soil erosion. Deforestation refers to the large-scale removal of trees and forests, which leads to the destruction of the natural habitats that countless species of plants and animals rely on for survival. When forests are cleared, the complex ecosystems they support are disrupted, leading to a decline in biodiversity.

Additionally, tree roots play a crucial role in anchoring soil and preventing erosion. Without trees to hold the soil in place, heavy rainfall can wash away the top layer of soil, leading to further land degradation and making it difficult for new vegetation to grow. This loss of soil integrity not only affects the immediate environment but also has long-term implications for agriculture and water quality in the area.

The other options fail to capture the primary consequences of deforestation. Increased biodiversity is typically associated with healthy ecosystems, not deforestation. While there may be short-term economic gains from logging or land conversion, these are often outweighed by long-term environmental and economic costs. Lastly, rather than improving air quality, deforestation can result in increased air pollution due to the loss of trees that absorb carbon dioxide and filter pollutants from the air.