When deforestation occurs in an area, what immediate effect does this have on the water cycle?
a) more water is returned to the atmosphere.
b) there is less runoff water, but more transpiration.
c) more precipitation is formed, because there is more evaporation.
d) more runoff water is created, and less is returned to the atmosphere.

D) More runoff water is created, and less is returned to the atmosphere.

Explanation:

The deforestation is a phenomena of clear cut and removal of forests from the land so as to obtain the forest land for construction of houses, or for using wood for furniture industry. The forests are the main contributors to the water cycle. The transpirated water from the forests accumulates in the atmosphere which when condense results in rain. Also, the rain water will be again absorbed by these forests.

The deforested land will be prone to flood and surface runoff in the absence of trees. This water is of deteriorating quality does not contribute the water cycle as compared to forested land.