(i) There was massive destruction of a large forest area due to forest fires. A few years later, severe droughts were experienced in that region. Explain how the massive deforestation led to droughts.

(ii) Which of the following cannot be caused by deforestation? Why?

(a) Desertification

(b) Severe droughts

(c) Increase in soil fertility

(d) Global warming

(i) The fewer trees remaining after deforestation utilizes less carbon dioxide during photosynthesis resulting in its increased amount in the atmosphere. This will lead to global warming as carbon dioxide traps the heat rays reflected by the earth. The increase in temperature on the earth disturbs the water cycle and may reduce rainfall. This could cause droughts.

(ii) Increase in soil fertility cannot be caused by deforestation.

Deforestation causes large amount of soil erosion, due to which the lower, hard and rocky layers get exposed. The fertile soil gets washed away during soil erosion. Hence, soil fertility gets reduced and is not increased during deforestation.