After the rainforest is cleared for agriculture, the most typical occurrence is that ________.
A) high agricultural yields occur for many years
B) the soils soon lose their fertility
C) the country's standard of living increases
D) the biotic diversity is increased
E) fertilization is unnecessary for many years

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When rainforest is cleared for agriculture, the high amount of organic matter in the soil is rapidly decomposed by exposure to sunlight, heat, and oxygen. This results in the loss of soil fertility, as the nutrients required for plant growth are either leached out or used up by the crop. Additionally, subsequent erosion can further degrade the soil. Therefore, option B is the correct answer. Options A, C, D, and E are incorrect as they do not reflect the reality of rainforest clearance for agriculture.

After the Rainforest Is Cleared for Agriculture, the Most Typical