# Deforestation is carried out in many parts of the world. Explain how deforestation affects the carbon cycle and contributes to climate change.

> WJEC A-Level Biology (Wales) — 3.6 Human impact on the environment · Explain · 5 marks

## Mark scheme (5 marks)

1. Trees/plants absorb/remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere during photosynthesis
2. Fewer trees means less carbon dioxide is removed/absorbed from the atmosphere
3. Burning/decomposition of felled trees releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere
4. This increases the concentration of carbon dioxide (a greenhouse gas) in the atmosphere
5. Increased carbon dioxide traps more heat/infrared radiation, leading to global warming/enhanced greenhouse effect/climate change

## Key terms

- [deforestation](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/deforestation)
- [carbon cycle](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/carbon-cycle)

## Related

- [Revision notes for WJEC A-Level Biology (Wales)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/deforestation-is-carried-out-in-many-b7bea131) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.