Question

Soil will erode more easily into the streams as less vegetation is present to hold it in place.

Rates of downcutting will decrease as the streams have less erosional power resulting from a reduced discharge.

Answer 1

The presence of less vegetation increases soil erosion into streams, while reduced stream discharge leads to decreased rates of downcutting.

Step-by-step explanation:

Less vegetation leads to increased soil erosion into streams, while a reduced discharge in streams leads to decreased rates of downcutting. The loss of vegetative cover increases the erosional impact of rain, as trees hold the soil together and prevent it from being washed away.

In logged forests or plantations, where vegetation is reduced, erosion rates can increase due to increased water flow. This can have negative effects on coral reefs, and eroded soil and sediment can transport nutrients and pesticides to rivers and streams.