Answer:
Q1 - A non-distinguishing characteristic would be the ages of trees, since trees in a Tropical Rain forest and a Siberian forest could both have the same age. What tells these two forests apart are the weather conditions, the kinds of trees that grow in such environments and the precipitation in those places, which determines what beings would be able to survive.
Q2- It is a damaging element because it causes the soil to break apart and carries it away, causing soil erosion. Erosion can make it difficult for plants to grow in it, and makes it harder for the soil layers to mantain their structure.
Q3- True, since it removes the layer that is the most inflammable is eliminated, which prevents wildfire.
Q4 - A rock is made of multiple substances, unlinke minerals that are only made of inorganic material and have a definite chemical composition.
Q5- Decreasing water supply to nations that are not in compliance with the United Nations wouldn't be an advantage of conserving water, since it won't prevent other nations to waste this resource and would be disrespecting a nation's choice to not be part of the U.N.