# Describe the effects of deforestation on the carbon cycle and explain how these effects may contribute to global warming.

> Pearson Edexcel International GCSE Biology (4BI1) — 4.4 Human influences on the environment · Describe · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Deforestation reduces the number of trees / plants available to absorb carbon dioxide through photosynthesis
2. Burning / combustion of felled trees releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere
3. Decomposition of dead / felled trees by decomposers also releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere
4. Increased atmospheric carbon dioxide acts as a greenhouse gas, trapping more heat / infrared radiation, causing global warming / rise in average temperature of the Earth

## Key terms

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

## Related

- [Revision notes for Pearson Edexcel International GCSE Biology (4BI1)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Describe" 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/describe-the-effects-of-deforestation-on-c2ee7e57) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.