In an area next to a river, there are many trees, and very little erosion occurs. Which of the following best explains this? A) The trees provide shade for the soil. B) The tree roots help hold the soil together. C) The trees contain bacteria. D) The tree roots absorb water from the soil.
Biology · Middle School · Mon Jan 18 2021
Answered on
B) The tree roots help hold the soil together.
The roots of trees have an extensive network that penetrates the soil. These roots act like a natural mesh, holding the soil in place and significantly reducing erosion. When it rains, or there is a flow of water from the river, the soil without such root structures is more likely to be washed away. The roots not only mechanically stabilize the soil but also create spaces within the soil structure, which can help to manage water flow and increase soil cohesion, leading to less erosion next to the river.