Chapter 2, Problem 1CR

To determine

The controlled scientific experiments that were carried out in the Hubbard Brook experimental forest.

Answer to Problem 1CR

The controlled experiments that were conducted in the Hubbard experimental forest was to study the ecological effects of the environment. Researchers measured the volume and nutrient content of water when the forest was flourished with trees. After that researcher, examined the volume and nutrient content of water in the deforested valley, it was observed that the deforested valley have low volume and less dissolved nutrients in the water.

Explanation of Solution

The controlled experiment was done to examine the harmful environmental effects if the trees were cut in a particular area. The researches constructed a V-shaped dam at the bottom of frosted valleys in Hubbard Brook experimental forest. The dam was built in such a way that the entire surface that leaves the forest valley had to cross the dam. The researcher measured the volume and dissolved nutrients of the water.

Firstly, researchers measure the volume and dissolved nutrients of the water, when the forested valley was undisturbed. The results showed that undisturbed forest provided water with a high level of dissolved nutrients and also retain chemical nutrients in the soil.

After that researcher, cut down the trees and shrubs in the valley and sprayed herbicides to inhibit the growth of plants. The researcher examined the outflow of water. The results showed that the volume of water flowing from the valley was reduced with a low level of dissolved nutrients. The deforested valley was unable to retain nutrients in the soil, so the soil was rapidly eroded and became infertile.