Question

Around the edges of many dry areas, sensitive ecosystems depend on local plant life to maintain cool, moist conditions. When humans deplete these areas of vegetation, soil rapidly disappears. Which characteristic of plants MOST likely helps to prevent soil erosion?
pollination cycles


root systems


release of moisture from leaves


photosynthetic activities

Answer 1

Pollination cycles do not really have any direct effect with the soil. Releasing moisture from leaves does replenish some water needed in the soil that is cycled back through the transport systems of plants but does not hold back soil. Photosynthetic activities only draw up nutrients, minerals, and water from the soil through roots.

Therefore, the often elaborate ROOT SYSTEMS are the answer. This is because the roots hold the plants in the ground (soil) and by this, the plants prevent natural disasters, artificial actions, and/or excess water to wash away soil. The roots help to reinforce the soil and hold it together.