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Assess the potential causes and impacts of changes to the water balance within a tropical rainforest that you have studied. - AQA - A-Level Geography - Question 1 - 2018 - Paper 1
Question 1
Assess the potential causes and impacts of changes to the water balance within a tropical rainforest that you have studied.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Assess the potential causes and impacts of changes to the water balance within a tropical rainforest that you have studied. - AQA - A-Level Geography - Question 1 - 2018 - Paper 1
Step 1
Potential Causes of Changes to the Water Balance
Answer
Changes to the water balance in a tropical rainforest can arise from both natural processes and human activities. Key drivers include:
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Climate Change: Alterations in global temperatures can impact precipitation patterns and lead to seasonal variations in water availability.
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Deforestation: The removal of trees affects evapotranspiration, as fewer trees lead to decreased moisture released into the atmosphere, which impacts rainfall patterns.
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Agricultural Practices: Practices such as land clearance for agriculture can lead to soil compaction and increased surface runoff, reducing water infiltration into the soil.
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Urbanization: Expansion and infrastructure development can disrupt natural drainage systems and increase impervious surfaces, further affecting the water balance.
Step 2
Impacts of Changes to the Water Balance
Answer
The consequences of altered water balance within a tropical rainforest are significant:
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Increased Flooding: Reduced vegetation leads to higher runoff and a greater risk of flooding, especially during heavy rainfall events.
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Biodiversity Loss: Changes in water availability can impact flora and fauna, leading to habitat degradation and potential extinction of species.
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Soil Erosion: With less vegetation to anchor soil, erosion rates may increase, affecting soil quality and fertility.
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Altered Ecosystem Services: The functions provided by the rainforest, such as carbon sequestration and climate regulation, may be diminished, exacerbating broader environmental issues.
In conclusion, understanding these causes and impacts is crucial for formulating strategies to mitigate adverse changes to water balance in tropical rainforests.