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Multiple Choice
Which of the following events may lead to primary succession?
A
A forest fire clearing an existing forest
B
A hurricane damaging a coastal area
C
A volcanic eruption creating new land
D
A flood depositing sediment in a river valley
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of primary succession: Primary succession occurs in lifeless areas where there is no soil or initial vegetation, such as newly formed volcanic islands or areas left bare by retreating glaciers.
Identify the characteristics of each event: A forest fire, hurricane, and flood all occur in areas where soil and some form of life already exist, which would lead to secondary succession, not primary.
Recognize that a volcanic eruption can create new land: When a volcano erupts, it can produce lava flows that solidify into new land, which initially lacks soil and life.
Determine why a volcanic eruption leads to primary succession: The new land formed by a volcanic eruption provides a blank slate for life to begin, starting with pioneer species that can colonize bare rock.
Conclude that the correct event for primary succession is a volcanic eruption creating new land, as it provides the conditions necessary for life to start from scratch.