Final answer:
Deforestation represents a conflict on Earth's surface where the pursuit of economic development through logging confronts the need to sustain ecological integrity. Competition for limited natural resources, like water or land, can also create conflict. Additionally, cultural differences based on ethnicity or religion often lead to disputes and unrest.
Step-by-step explanation:
An example of conflict on the Earth’s surface is deforestation, a significant environmental challenge that arises from the clash between human activities such as logging for firewood, building materials, or profit, and the need to preserve natural ecosystems. Deforestation leads to soil erosion, changes in weather patterns, and the loss of habitats, thereby triggering conflicts between the interests of economic development and environmental conservation. Another instance is the competition for scarce resources, such as water or fertile land, which can lead to local or regional conflicts as communities or countries vie for these essential resources.
Furthermore, geographical features like mountains can create rain shadows, leading to disparities in rain distribution. This can intensify conflicts over water resources, as regions on the leeward side of the mountain suffer drier conditions. Cultural forces, such as ethnic and religious differences, may also be at the root of conflicts, whereby inequities and disagreements lead to strife within or between nations.