Erosion and Deposition: Wind, Gravity, and Living Things — Quiz
Question 3 • Earth and Space Science
In a semi-arid region, vegetation was removed from slopes that had historically absorbed occasional rainfall through grass and shrub systems. Several months later, storms resulted in rapid landscape change. Which process most likely contributed to the change?
Answer
A
With no root systems in place, water infiltrated too quickly and caused slope collapse.
B
Intermittent wetting and drying cycles caused surface breakdown, making it easier for soil to erode.
C
Loss of canopy exposure caused the soil to harden, protecting it from further erosion.
D
Vegetation removal led to improved soil cohesion due to reduced biological disturbance.
Explanation
In semi-arid regions, soil can repeatedly swell when wet and shrink as it dries. These cycles break down the soil surface into loose material that storms can carry away more easily, especially after vegetation is removed. So the most likely process is intermittent wetting and drying causing surface breakdown, not water infiltrating too quickly.
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