Hypothesis

Question 1

Hypothesis

Answer 1

For Mount Fuji to shrink in size, human activity that accelerates soil erosion is essential but not sustainable.

Question 2

What is (soil) erosion?

Answer 2

• Erosion is a geological process in which earthen materials (i.e., soil, rocks, sediments) are worn away and transported over time by natural forces such as water or wind
• Soil erosion is the natural process in which the topsoil of a field is carried away by physical sources such as wind and water

Question 3

What are the causes and effects of soil erosion?

Answer 3

• Causes of Soil Erosion:
  * Rainfall and Flooding
  * Agriculture
  * Grazing
  * Logging and Mining
  * Construction
  * Rivers and Streams
  * Heavy Winds
• Effects of Soil Erosion:
  
  • Loss of Arable Land
  • Clogging of Waterways
  • Air Pollution
  • Desertification
  • Destruction of Infrastructure

Question 4

How do mountains shrink in size?

Answer 4

• They can undergo erosion by rain and wind, as well as landslides due to flooding
• Some mountains change via volcanic activity
• They may also change due to earthquakes and the shifting of tectonic plates

Question 5

What is human activity and how does human activity affect mountains?

Answer 5

• Human activities are the various actions for recreation, living, or necessity done by people
• Humans impact the physical environment in many ways: overpopulation, pollution, burning fossil fuels, and deforestation
• Changes like these have triggered climate change, soil erosion, poor air quality, and undrinkable water

Question 6

How does human activity accelerate soil erosion?

Answer 6

• Overgrazing
  * Occurs when farmers stock too many animals such as sheep, cattle, or goats on their land. The animals damage the soil surface by eating the vegetation and either digging into wet soil or compacting dry soil with their hooves. This can prevent grass from growing and slow down the percolation of water through the soil. Soils that become drier tend to be vulnerable to the winds blowing the topsoil away
• Road erosion
  * Roads and tracks near farms collect runoff from overland flow, as well as from rain falling on the road surface
• House construction
• Steep slope cultivation
• Tourism development
• Animal trampling
• Overcropping
• Deforestation
• Windbreaks
• Reforestation
• Farming techniques
• Stone walls
• Tourism

Question 7

Is soil erosion sustainable?

Answer 7

• Accelerated soil erosion is a common and environmentally destructive consequence of development, especially in mountain regions
• Soil erosion decreases soil fertility, which can negatively affect crop yields. It also sends soil-laden water downstream, which can create heavy layers of sediment that prevent streams and rivers from flowing smoothly and can eventually lead to flooding