OSAT Biological Sciences (110) Practice Exam

Desertification is primarily related to the degradation of dryland ecosystems, and an arid climate is a significant contributing factor. In arid regions, where rainfall is naturally low and evaporation rates are high, the land is more susceptible to degradation and can quickly evolve into a desert environment if not managed properly. Conditions such as droughts, land misuse, deforestation, and overgrazing can exacerbate the effects of an arid climate, leading to a loss of vegetation and soil quality, which are critical for maintaining healthy ecosystems.

Heavy rainfall, prolonged freezing temperatures, and increased biodiversity do not contribute to desertification. In fact, heavy rainfall can promote vegetation growth, prolonged freezing temperatures are typically associated with different ecosystems, and increased biodiversity is generally indicative of a healthy ecosystem rather than a factor leading to desertification. Thus, an arid climate stands out as a key condition that makes regions more vulnerable to the processes that drive desertification.