Answer:
The rate of environmental change can vary depending on the type of succession that is occurring. Primary succession, which occurs in areas where no previous community existed, often occurs at a slower pace than secondary succession, which occurs in areas where a community has been disrupted or disturbed but soil and other elements of the ecosystem remain intact.
In primary succession, the process begins with the colonization of pioneer species that are able to survive in harsh and barren environments. These species slowly and gradually modify the environment by adding organic matter to the soil, building up nutrients, and creating habitats for other species to move in. Over time, more complex and diverse communities develop, leading to a slow and steady change in the environment.
In contrast, secondary succession occurs in areas where a community has been disturbed or destroyed, but the soil and other elements of the ecosystem remain. This can occur after natural disasters such as fires, floods, or landslides, or as a result of human activity such as farming or logging. Because the soil and other elements of the ecosystem are already present, secondary succession can occur at a faster pace than primary succession. The community may be able to rebuild quickly, with the growth of new vegetation and the return of wildlife.
Overall, the rate of environmental change in a succession process depends on the type of succession occurring, with primary succession occurring at a slower pace than secondary succession