Environment problems - deforestation worksheet - Free Printable

Here is the correct matching of the terms on the left with their definitions on the right, along with an explanation for each match:

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1. deforestation — f. the destruction of forests by people

* Explanation: Deforestation specifically refers to the large-scale removal or clearing of forested land by human activity, often for agriculture, logging, or development. The image showing tree stumps reinforces this definition.

2. rainforest — a. a forest in the tropical regions which receives a lot of rain

* Explanation: Rainforests are dense, biodiverse forests found near the equator (tropical regions) characterized by very high annual rainfall. They are crucial ecosystems often targeted by deforestation.

3. carbon dioxide — g. the gas which forms when something is burned or when living organisms breathe

* Explanation: Carbon dioxide (CO₂) is a naturally occurring gas produced by respiration in animals and plants, and by the combustion (burning) of fossil fuels, wood, and other organic materials. It is a key greenhouse gas.

4. greenhouse gases — c. gases which cause a gradual warming of the surface of Earth

* Explanation: Greenhouse gases, including carbon dioxide, methane, and water vapor, trap heat in the Earth's atmosphere. This natural process keeps the planet warm enough to support life, but an excess of these gases leads to global warming and climate change.

5. emitter — e. something that causes gases to be released into the atmosphere

* Explanation: An emitter is any source that releases substances, particularly gases, into the environment. This could be a factory smokestack, a car exhaust pipe, or even a living organism releasing CO₂.

6. logging — b. cutting down trees for wood

* Explanation: Logging is the industry or activity of cutting down trees, typically for timber or pulp. While it can be done sustainably, it is a primary driver of deforestation when done unsustainably or illegally.

7. ranching — d. keeping animals on a very large farm, especially in America

* Explanation: Ranching involves raising livestock (like cattle or sheep) on large tracts of land. In many parts of the world, especially in the Americas, vast areas of forest are cleared to create pastureland for ranching, making it a major cause of deforestation.

8. conservation — h. the protection of the environment

* Explanation: Conservation means the careful preservation and protection of natural resources, habitats, and biodiversity. It is the opposite of destructive activities like deforestation and aims to maintain ecological balance.

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Final Answer:

1. deforestation → f
2. rainforest → a
3. carbon dioxide → g
4. greenhouse gases → c
5. emitter → e
6. logging → b
7. ranching → d
8. conservation → h