# Explain how deforestation can affect the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.

> Eduqas GCSE Biology — 1.6.3 Human impact on the environment · Explain · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Trees/plants remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere by photosynthesis
2. Fewer trees means less carbon dioxide is removed / absorbed from the atmosphere
3. Trees are often burned when land is cleared, releasing carbon dioxide
4. Both effects together cause an increase in atmospheric carbon dioxide / contribute to the enhanced greenhouse effect / global warming

## Key terms

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

## Related

- [Revision notes for Eduqas GCSE Biology](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/explain-how-deforestation-can-affect-the-30576b66) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.