Massive deforestation leads to severe soil erosion during heavy rains and poor groundwater recharge during…

Massive deforestation leads to severe soil erosion during heavy rains and poor groundwater recharge during dry spells. How does tree loss directly contribute to both floods and droughts?
  1. Trees absorb all rainwater completely into their leaves
  2. Tree roots hold soil and slow surface runoff, aiding water infiltration into the ground
  3. Trees reduce atmospheric oxygen which prevents rain clouds from forming
  4. Tree leaves block atmospheric wind from blowing clouds away

Solution

Tree roots bind soil particles and slow down surface runoff (preventing flash floods), while allowing water to infiltrate and replenish aquifers (preventing droughts).

Asked in: Homi Bhabha Practice

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