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Why does clearing forests using fire contribute to the greenhouse effect?

User Kim Gentes
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Answer:

Release of Carbon Dioxide (CO2),Reduction of Carbon Sink, Alteration of Land Albed and Loss of Biodiversity

Step-by-step explanation:

Release of Carbon Dioxide (CO2): When trees and vegetation burn, they release carbon dioxide, a major greenhouse gas, into the atmosphere. Trees store carbon as they grow, and when they are burned, this stored carbon is released back into the atmosphere in the form of CO2. Increased CO2 levels in the atmosphere contribute to the greenhouse effect, trapping heat and warming the Earth's surface.

Reduction of Carbon Sink: Forests act as carbon sinks, absorbing CO2 from the atmosphere during photosynthesis. By clearing forests, especially old-growth forests, this vital function is disrupted. The reduced number of trees means less carbon is being sequestered, and the overall capacity of the region to absorb CO2 is diminished.

Alteration of Land Albedo: Trees have a different albedo (reflectivity) compared to open, cleared land. Forests tend to absorb more sunlight and reflect less compared to open areas. When forests are cleared, the land surface becomes more reflective, which can lead to increased absorption of solar radiation and, subsequently, higher temperatures in the cleared areas.

Loss of Biodiversity: The loss of biodiversity due to forest clearance can disrupt ecosystems and lead to changes in natural processes, including those related to the carbon cycle. Healthy, diverse ecosystems are better at sequestering carbon, and disturbances like fires can disrupt this balance.

User Timo Kvamme
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