World Geography Help?

Question

I have to write a paragraph of the causes and effects of deforestation in south america can some one help me start it off

Answer 1

Causes -

The leading cause of deforestation in the South American rainforest since the 1970s is clearing land for cattle ranches.

Also, forests are being cut down for improvements in transportation (roads), logging and mining sites.

Another major cause of deforestation is commercial agriculture.

Effects -

Effects on biodiversity - extinction of many species of plants and animals.

Change in climate: without trees, the soil is exposed to the sun and does not retain moisture. Therefore, the climate becomes hot and dry, leading to desertification.

Dramatic increase in temperature extremes: Trees provide shade and the shaded area has a moderated temperature. With shade, the temperature may be 98 degrees Farenheit during the day and 60 degrees at night. With out the shade, temperatures would be much colder during the night and around 130 degrees during the day.

Deforestation is known to contribute to run-off of rainfall and intensified soil erosion.