Which of the following mechanisms explain the increase in soil erosion after large-scale deforestation?

Question

Which of the following mechanisms explain the increase in soil erosion after large-scale deforestation?

I. Reduction in rainfall interception by forest canopy.

II. Decrease in soil infiltration rate.

III. Increase in evapotranspiration.

IV. Loss of soil-binding root systems.

1. A. I and IV only
2. B. II and III only
3. C. I, II and IV only
4. D. I, II, III and IV (Correct answer)

Correct Answer

Option D — I, II, III and IV

Detailed Solution & Explanation

The correct answer is I, II, III and IV.

Key Points

• Deforestation increases soil erosion by: reducing rainfall interception (I), decreasing soil infiltration increasing surface runoff (II), removing root systems that bind soil (IV), and reducing evapotranspiration leading to excess surface water (III).
• All four mechanisms contribute.