How does deforestation accelerate the process of soil erosion?

• A. By removing vegetation that stabilizes the soil, making it more susceptible to being washed or blown away.
• B. By increasing the rate of photosynthesis in the soil, which leads to soil breakdown.
• C. By introducing more nutrients into the soil, which causes it to erode faster.
• D. By decreasing the amount of rainfall in the area, causing the soil to dry out and erode.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the role of vegetation in stabilizing soil: Vegetation, such as trees and plants, anchors the soil with their roots. These roots help bind soil particles together, reducing the likelihood of erosion caused by wind or water.
2. Analyze the impact of deforestation: When vegetation is removed through deforestation, the soil loses this stabilizing effect. Without roots to hold it in place, the soil becomes loose and more vulnerable to being washed away by rain or blown away by wind.
3. Consider the role of rainfall and water flow: In areas where deforestation occurs, the lack of vegetation can lead to increased surface runoff during rainfall. This runoff can carry away the topsoil, accelerating erosion.
4. Evaluate the incorrect options: Increased photosynthesis in the soil does not occur due to deforestation, nor does it lead to soil breakdown. Similarly, introducing more nutrients into the soil does not cause erosion; in fact, nutrient-rich soil is often more stable. Lastly, deforestation does not directly decrease rainfall; instead, it may alter local climate patterns over time.
5. Conclude the correct answer: The correct explanation is that deforestation accelerates soil erosion by removing vegetation that stabilizes the soil, making it more susceptible to being washed or blown away.