3.3 - Amazon Drought Flashcards
1
Q
When were the mega-droughts and how much CO2 was released during them and why?
A
2005 - 5bn tonnes, 2010 - 8bn tonnes
Decomposing vegetation which died due to lack of water and forest fires
2
Q
how much forest damaged in 2005
A
30% of mature
3
Q
How much did photosynthesis slow by
A
10%
4
Q
What positive feedback cycle may arise
A
Drought, decomposing veg, more CO2 in atmosphere, higher temps, faster decomposition rate, more carbon added faster, continues drought damaging forestry so even more die
5
Q
Brazil respiratory problems during the mega droughts?
A
181% in 2005 and 267% in 2010 more hospitalised
6
Q
Impacts on food
A
Drier soil, less veg cover, less nutrients and moisture in soil, crops don’t grow properly
