Which of the following is considered the best natural defense against soil erosion?

• A. Rocky soil composition
• B. Frequent rainfall
• C. High wind speeds
• D. Dense vegetation cover

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of soil erosion: Soil erosion is the process by which soil is removed from the surface of the Earth, often due to wind, water, or human activity. It can lead to loss of fertile land and environmental degradation.
2. Recognize the role of vegetation in preventing soil erosion: Dense vegetation cover helps stabilize the soil by anchoring it with roots, reducing the impact of wind and water on the soil surface.
3. Compare the options provided: Analyze why dense vegetation cover is more effective than rocky soil composition, frequent rainfall, or high wind speeds in preventing soil erosion. Rocky soil may resist erosion but lacks the stabilizing effect of roots. Frequent rainfall can exacerbate erosion by washing soil away, and high wind speeds can blow loose soil particles away.
4. Understand the mechanism of dense vegetation cover: Roots of plants bind soil particles together, reducing their susceptibility to being washed away by water or blown away by wind. Additionally, plant leaves and stems act as a physical barrier, reducing the direct impact of raindrops and wind on the soil surface.
5. Conclude that dense vegetation cover is the best natural defense against soil erosion because it provides both physical protection and structural stability to the soil.