World Geo - Ch 11 Flashcard

Front

What is the Amazon rain forest known for in terms of biodiversity?

Back

It is home to a wide variety of plant and animal species.

Answer explanation

The Amazon rainforest is renowned for its rich biodiversity, hosting a vast array of plant and animal species, making it one of the most diverse ecosystems on the planet.

Front

Why do some people clear the rain forest to grow crops?

Back

There is a shortage of farmland elsewhere.

Answer explanation

Some people clear the rain forest to grow crops because there is a shortage of farmland elsewhere. This drives them to utilize available land, even if it means impacting the rainforest.

Front

What happens to the soil after the forest is cleared for farming?

Back

It becomes less productive after a few years.

Answer explanation

After clearing a forest for farming, the soil often becomes less productive after a few years due to nutrient depletion, erosion, and loss of organic matter, making it less suitable for sustained agricultural use.

Front

What is one of the main reasons ranchers clear the rain forest?

Back

To graze cattle for the export market.

Answer explanation

One of the main reasons ranchers clear the rain forest is to graze cattle for the export market. This practice prioritizes livestock production over preserving the forest ecosystem.

Front

How does deforestation of the rain forest contribute to global warming?

Back

By increasing carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.

Answer explanation

Deforestation increases carbon dioxide in the atmosphere because trees, which absorb CO2, are removed. This leads to higher levels of greenhouse gases, contributing to global warming.

Front

What is a debt-for-nature swap?

Back

An agreement where debt is forgiven in exchange for forest preservation.

Answer explanation

A debt-for-nature swap is an agreement where a portion of a country's debt is forgiven in exchange for commitments to preserve natural resources, particularly forests, making the correct choice about forest preservation.

Front

What short-term benefit do countries gain from deforestation?

Back

Economic gain

Answer explanation

Countries gain short-term economic gain from deforestation by exploiting timber and land for agriculture, which can boost local economies and provide immediate financial benefits.

Front

Which country was mentioned as an example where a debt-for-nature swap has been successful?

Back

Bolivia

Answer explanation

Bolivia is highlighted as a successful example of a debt-for-nature swap, demonstrating how financial strategies can effectively support environmental conservation efforts.

Front

What is one of the major threats to the rain forest caused by deforestation?

Back

Loss of biodiversity.

Answer explanation

One of the major threats to the rain forest caused by deforestation is the loss of biodiversity. As trees are cut down, many species lose their habitats, leading to extinction and a decrease in the variety of life.

Front

Why are grassroots organizations important in the fight to preserve rain forests?

Back

They help educate people and organize protests against harmful projects.

Answer explanation

Grassroots organizations are crucial as they educate communities about the importance of rain forests and mobilize protests against projects that threaten these ecosystems, thereby advocating for their preservation.