Chapter 4, Problem 15STP

Summary Introduction

To analyze:

Examples of the ways that environmental factor, such as a forest fire, can affect a population.

Introduction:

A forest fire always starts one of two ways- natural caused or human caused. It destroys vegetation, grassland, wildlife, and their shelter. Fires can cause the displacement of mammals and territorial birds.

Explanation of Solution

Effect on wildlife:

The forest fire destroys the life of animals, food and, shelters. Wildfire can include the destruction of nesting sites, kills birds, reptiles, and mammals.

Effect on air and climate:

The forest fire releases greenhouse gases, which change the climate and air. The area becomes polluted, and a large amount of carbon dioxide gas releases. A warm climate can dry the forests.

Effect on water:

A large number of populations suffer the problem of water supply after a forest fire. This is the most critical problem in the forest. Water supply is affected by the active burning of the forest. Ash or contaminants are settled down into the lakes, and rivers.

Effect on soil:

The forest fire changes the soil texture. It affects the vegetation and as a result, most of vegetables do not grow in dry soil. Therefore, the population suffers from hunger.

Conclusion

Thus forest fire has direct and indirect effect on population. It affects soil, water, climate and wildlife.