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Houston Community College *
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Course
1301
Subject
Geography
Date
Dec 6, 2023
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docx
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4
Uploaded by 4521Ab123
How Canada’s Record Wildfires Got So Bad, So Fast
Question 1:
Based on the provided text, the dependent and independent variables in the context of Canada's
record wildfires can be identified as follows:
1.
Dependent Variable:
Acres Burned by Wildfires in Canada: This variable represents the total area of land that has
been burned by wildfires in Canada. It is the main variable of interest and is dependent on
various factors. Logging and deforestation practices have disrupted natural ecosystems, making
them more susceptible to fire propagation (Balch et al., 2017). Poorly managed and extinguished
campfires within forested areas can ignite wildfires (Moritz et al., 2020).
2.
Independent Variables:
Hot, dry, windy weather and Vegetation: These weather conditions are independent
variables that contribute to the likelihood and intensity of wildfires. They include high
temperatures, low humidity, and strong winds. The presence and condition of vegetation
act as an independent variable. Dry and flammable vegetation provides fuel for wildfires.
The increasing frequency and intensity of heatwaves have further dried out vegetation,
increasing fuel for wildfires (Wehner et al., 2017).
People and climate change: Although not directly measured in the provided text, climate
change is mentioned as a factor influencing the increasing severity and frequency of
wildfires. Previous studies have indicated that climate change is caused by people and
human factor is mentioned in this article. It can be considered an independent variable
affecting the dependent variable.
Ignition sources: Ignition sources, such as lightning strikes are independent variables that
can start wildfires.
Question 2:
The provided graphs and charts in the article help visualize and support the information
presented about Canada's record wildfires. Let's discuss each graph and its relevance to the
article:
1. Acres Burned by Wildfires in Canada:
This graph shows the total acres burned by wildfires in Canada from various years,
including 2023. It highlights the significant increase in acres burned compared to
previous years, such as the previous record in 1989.
The statistical data accurately addresses the issue presented in the article by
demonstrating the scale and severity of the wildfires in Canada. It supports the statement
that 2023 has already surpassed the previous annual record and is the country's worst
wildfire season on record.
2. An Early and Intense Canadian Fire Season:
The graph shows that by early June 2023, the number of hot spot detections had already
reached a significantly higher level compared to previous years. Canada's wildfires have
been exacerbated by the effects of climate change.
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