Forests play a vital role in regulating the Earth’s atmosphere. Here are four key ways they influence atmospheric conditions:
Carbon Sequestration: Forests absorb carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the atmosphere during photosynthesis and store it in trees, plants, and soil. This process helps reduce greenhouse gases, which are responsible for global warming.
Oxygen Production: Trees release oxygen as a byproduct of photosynthesis. A single mature tree can produce enough oxygen for two to ten people annually, making forests essential for clean air.
Temperature Regulation: Forests help cool the planet by providing shade and releasing water vapor through transpiration. This process creates a cooling effect, which can lower local temperatures and combat urban heat islands.
However, deforestation disrupts these benefits. Cutting down forests releases stored CO₂, reduces oxygen production, and worsens air quality. Protecting and restoring forests is crucial for maintaining a healthy atmosphere.
Fun fact: The Amazon rainforest produces 20% of the world’s oxygen, earning it the nickname “the lungs of the Earth.”
What is one way forests affect the atmosphere?
By increasing CO₂ levelsBy absorbing CO₂ through carbon sequestrationBy reducing oxygen levelsBy creating more pollutionWhat gas do trees release during photosynthesis?
Carbon dioxideOxygenMethaneNitrogenHow do forests help regulate temperature?
By increasing heatBy releasing water vapor through transpirationBy blocking sunlight completelyBy reducing rainfallWhat is one pollutant that trees filter from the air?
OxygenNitrogen oxidesCarbon dioxideWater vaporWhat is one consequence of deforestation?
Improved air qualityIncreased oxygen productionRelease of stored CO₂Lower temperaturesWhat percentage of the world’s oxygen does the Amazon rainforest produce?
5%10%20%50%What is the fun fact mentioned in the passage?
Forests produce no oxygenThe Amazon rainforest produces 20% of the world’s oxygenTrees do not affect air qualityDeforestation improves the atmosphereWhat is one benefit of forests for human health?
They increase respiratory illnessesThey improve air quality by filtering pollutantsThey release harmful gasesThey reduce oxygen levels