\begin{tabular}{l} (b) State the effect of deforestation on the gases in the surroundings. Explain your \\ answer. \\ [2] \\ \hline\end{tabular}

Deforestation significantly reduces the number of trees available to absorb carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere, leading to increased levels of this greenhouse gas. Trees play a crucial role in the carbon cycle; they take in CO2 during photosynthesis, thus helping to mitigate climate change. When trees are cut down, not only is this carbon-absorbing function lost, but the carbon stored in the trees is also released back into the atmosphere, exacerbating global warming. Moreover, the removal of forests disrupts the balance of gases because there are fewer plants available to release oxygen (O2) into the atmosphere. While the oxygen levels may remain stable for a while, the long-term effects of decreased photosynthesis can lead to an imbalance in gas concentrations, impacting ecosystems and overall air quality.