Chapter 53, Problem 15PIAT

Summary Introduction

To review:

The model illustrating the tipping point hypothesis of Amazonian forests’ destruction.

Introduction:

Amazonian forests are highly productive and harbor a rich flora and fauna. They are also highly fragile at the same time. As a result of anthropogenic activities and global warming, these forests are facing a threat of extinction.

The positive feedback loops among numerous variables in the Amazon will cause the transformation of forests into grasslands. The positive feedback loops due to these increased activities are illustrated in the figure given below: