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Multiple Choice
Which of the following could result in secondary succession?
A
A forest fire that destroys vegetation but leaves the soil intact
B
The formation of new land from cooled lava
C
A glacier retreating and exposing bare rock
D
The initial colonization of a sand dune by pioneer species
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of secondary succession: Secondary succession occurs in areas where a disturbance has removed vegetation but left the soil intact, allowing life to regrow over time. This is different from primary succession, which starts in areas without soil, such as bare rock or newly formed land.
Analyze the first option: A forest fire that destroys vegetation but leaves the soil intact fits the definition of secondary succession because the soil remains, enabling plants and other organisms to recolonize the area.
Analyze the second option: The formation of new land from cooled lava represents primary succession, as the cooled lava creates a surface without soil, requiring pioneer species to establish life from scratch.
Analyze the third option: A glacier retreating and exposing bare rock also represents primary succession, as the exposed rock lacks soil, necessitating the colonization by pioneer species to begin the process of ecosystem development.
Analyze the fourth option: The initial colonization of a sand dune by pioneer species is an example of primary succession, as sand dunes typically lack developed soil and require pioneer species to stabilize the environment and create conditions for further ecological development.