How does the fertility of soil decrease due to deforestation?
Deforestation severely impacts soil fertility through multiple mechanisms. Trees and their root systems bind soil particles together, and when removed, the topsoil—which contains most nutrients and organic matter—becomes vulnerable to erosion by wind and water. Tree roots also help maintain soil structure, allowing water infiltration and preventing nutrient leaching. Without forest cover, rainfall directly strikes the ground, washing away fertile topsoil. Additionally, trees contribute organic matter through fallen leaves and branches, which decompose to enrich soil. Deforestation disrupts this natural nutrient cycling, and exposure to direct sunlight increases soil temperature, killing beneficial microorganisms that maintain soil health. Over time, deforested land becomes barren and unable to support plant growth.
Suggested Q&A
General · Class 12- GeneralClass 12Electric Field at Centre of Ring with Non-Uniform Charge Distribution. Four quadrants carry linear charge densities: +2λ, −2λ, +λ, −λ. Find electric field at centre.
- GeneralClass 12P°(hexane) = 408 Torr, P°(heptane) = 141 Torr. x(hexane) = 0.300. Find Y₆ and Y₇.
- GeneralClass 122N₂O₅(g) → 4NO₂(g) + O₂(g). Initial P = 50 mmHg; P at 30 min = 87.5 mmHg. Find P at 60 min.
- GeneralClass 12What is the difference between psychosis and neurosis?
- GeneralClass 12What is the difference between prism and a pyramid?
- GeneralClass 12What is the difference between phrase and clause?