How does deforestation exacerbate acid deposition?

Deforestation exacerbates acid deposition by reducing the amount of carbon dioxide absorbed from the atmosphere.

Deforestation is the process of clearing large areas of forests, often to make way for agricultural activities or urban development. This process has a significant impact on the environment, including exacerbating the problem of acid deposition. Acid deposition, also known as acid rain, is a serious environmental issue that occurs when sulphur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) are released into the atmosphere, combine with water vapour and fall to the earth as precipitation with a pH lower than normal.

Forests play a crucial role in the carbon cycle, acting as a 'sink' by absorbing carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere during photosynthesis. This process not only helps to reduce the amount of CO2 in the atmosphere, but also indirectly reduces the amount of SO2 and NOx. This is because these gases are often released during the combustion of fossil fuels, a process that also releases CO2. Therefore, by absorbing CO2, forests can help to limit the amount of SO2 and NOx released into the atmosphere.

When forests are cleared, this important function is lost. The amount of CO2 in the atmosphere increases, which can lead to an increase in the combustion of fossil fuels as more energy is needed to power activities such as manufacturing and transportation. This, in turn, can lead to an increase in the release of SO2 and NOx, exacerbating the problem of acid deposition.

Furthermore, deforestation can also lead to soil erosion, which can release stored carbon into the atmosphere, further increasing the levels of CO2. This can also exacerbate acid deposition as the increased CO2 levels can lead to more fossil fuel combustion and the release of more SO2 and NOx.

In summary, deforestation exacerbates acid deposition by reducing the amount of CO2 that forests can absorb from the atmosphere, leading to an increase in the combustion of fossil fuels and the release of SO2 and NOx. It also contributes to soil erosion, which can release stored carbon and further increase CO2 levels.