# Explain how deforestation can lead to an increase in global warming.

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

> Large areas of tropical forest are cleared each year to provide land for cattle grazing and crop production. Scientists have linked this land-use change to rising levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Trees/plants removed so less photosynthesis occurs
2. Carbon dioxide is released into the atmosphere when trees are burned or decay / respired by decomposers
3. Carbon dioxide (and methane) are greenhouse gases that trap heat in the Earth's atmosphere
4. This causes the average temperature of the Earth to rise / global warming

## Key terms

- [deforestation](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/deforestation)
- [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 "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-lead-to-5b288f15) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.