A large area of forest was cleared by burning. Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding the consequences of this activity?
(i) Increase in soil erosion as soil is directly exposed to wind and rain. (ii) The land will have more fresh air as there are lesser trees to take in oxygen. Wildlife will easily thrive in the cleared area because more space is available now. (iv) New trees will grow faster and replace the burnt forest soon as the ash of the burnt trees will make the soil more fertile.

Options

A. (i) only
B. (i) and (iv) only
C. (i), (ii) and (iv) only
D. (i), (ii), (iii) and (iv)

Answer

A

Explanation

Forests help in preventing soil erosion. Roots of trees bind the soil particles together, thus preventing the soil erosion. If forests are cleared by burning, then soil will erode rapidly.