Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video
Multiple Choice
Why is there limited vegetation in the tundra biome?
A
Because nutrient-rich soils promote only large trees
B
Because intense sunlight leads to rapid evaporation
C
Because low temperatures and permafrost restrict plant growth
D
Because high rainfall causes frequent flooding
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the tundra biome: The tundra is a cold, treeless biome found in regions such as the Arctic and high mountain areas. It is characterized by low temperatures, short growing seasons, and a layer of permafrost (permanently frozen soil).
Analyze the role of permafrost: Permafrost prevents deep root penetration, which restricts the growth of large plants and trees. This limits vegetation to shallow-rooted plants like mosses, lichens, and small shrubs.
Consider the impact of low temperatures: The cold climate slows down biological processes, including photosynthesis and nutrient cycling, making it difficult for plants to grow and thrive.
Evaluate sunlight availability: While the tundra experiences long daylight hours during summer, the intensity of sunlight is not sufficient to overcome the challenges posed by the cold temperatures and permafrost.
Rule out incorrect options: Nutrient-rich soils and intense sunlight are not characteristic of the tundra biome. High rainfall and flooding are also not typical of this biome. The correct explanation is that low temperatures and permafrost restrict plant growth.