Question

which of the following is the most likely result from clearing mature, forested land and converting it into agricultural land that would be used for cattle grazing?
a there will be a decrease in the amount of runoff into nearby streams.
b there will be a reduction in the emission of greenhouse gases released into the atmosphere.
c there will be an increase in the diversity and size of primary producers.
d there will be a reduction in the uptake of atmospheric carbon dioxide.

Explanation:

• Option A: Forests help absorb and retain water. Clearing them would likely increase runoff, not decrease it.
• Option B: Deforestation (clearing forests) releases carbon (a greenhouse gas) stored in trees. Also, cattle (ruminants) produce methane (a potent greenhouse gas). So, greenhouse gas emissions would increase, not reduce.
• Option C: Primary producers in a forest (like various tree species, shrubs, etc.) have higher diversity compared to the grasses (the main primary producers in a cattle - grazing area). So, diversity would decrease.
• Option D: Trees in a forest are major absorbers of atmospheric carbon dioxide through photosynthesis. When forests are cleared, there are fewer plants (compared to the forest) to take up carbon dioxide.

Answer:

D. There will be a reduction in the uptake of atmospheric carbon dioxide.