Ch 11.2 Forests and their Resources

Front

What is soil erosion?

Back

Soil erosion is the process by which soil is removed from the Earth's surface by wind, water, or human activity, leading to muddy waterways, flooding, habitat degradation, increased runoff, and lower quality drinking water.

Front

What does even-aged stand mean in forestry?

Back

An even-aged stand refers to a group of trees that are all of the same age, typically resulting from clear-cutting where all trees are harvested at the same time.

Front

What percentage of the Earth's surface is covered by forests?

Back

Forests cover about 31% of the Earth's surface.

Front

What is shelterwood cutting?

Back

Shelterwood cutting is a forestry practice that involves removing trees in a way that leaves a few large trees standing to protect seedlings and promote regeneration.

Front

Define clear-cutting in forestry.

Back

Clear-cutting is a forestry practice of cutting down all trees in a specific area at once, often leading to significant ecological changes.

Front

What are the consequences of soil erosion?

Back

Consequences of soil erosion include loss of fertile topsoil, increased sediment in waterways, reduced agricultural productivity, and degradation of natural habitats.

Front

What is the role of forests in carbon cycling?

Back

Forests play a crucial role in carbon cycling by absorbing carbon dioxide during photosynthesis and storing carbon in biomass and soil.

Front

What is the difference between selective cutting and clear-cutting?

Back

Selective cutting involves removing only certain trees while leaving others intact, whereas clear-cutting involves removing all trees in a designated area.

Front

What is habitat degradation?

Back

Habitat degradation refers to the deterioration of the natural environment, often due to human activities, leading to loss of biodiversity and ecosystem services.

Front

What is the significance of biodiversity in forests?

Back

Biodiversity in forests is significant as it contributes to ecosystem resilience, stability, and the provision of various ecological services.