1.17. Amazon Rainforest Case Study

Question 1

Why does the atmosphere become less humid?

Answer 1

Evapotranspiration is reduced because there is less photosynthesis so less water is released and less carbon is absorbed and more is left in the atmosphere.
Less clouds and condensation so area becomes drier.

Question 2

What will happen to rates of interception, evaporation and evapotranspiration?

Answer 2

Decreased interception as there are few trees so most rainfall will reach the ground immediately.
Little evaporation of leaves -> transpiration virtually 0
Evaporation increases as temps increase.

Question 3

What happens to overland flow and soil compaction/ saturation?

Answer 3

Soils are becoming saturated as less interception so increases runoff so increases flood risk.

Question 4

What happens to the rate of runoff?

Answer 4

Rates of runoff will increase with an increased risk of flooding
Soil is saturated

Question 5

What happens when the soil becomes drier?

Answer 5

Becomes like an impermeable surface so soil starts to crack and infiltration rates decrease.
Water will evaporate or runoff.
If soil particles are dry and can move easily, causing soil erosion.

Question 6

How does slash and burn impact the carbon cycle in the Tropical Rainforest?

Answer 6

Cutting down trees reduces the amount of carbon absorbed from the atmosphere and burning them releases carbon into the atmosphere.
When they’re burned, nutrients are released and more plants grow which absorb carbon -> negative feedback