Scientists estimate that 600,000 acres of land will disappear from Louisiana’s coastal region over the next fifty years. Which factor will contribute least to this change?
A.hurricanes
B.silt buildup
C.erosion
D.the levee system
And you think it's ... ?
http://www.google.com/#q=disappearing+land+louisiana
Read several of these, and then let us know if you change your mind. Remember, it's asking which contributes least?
Did you discover that you're right? =)
Hurricans
To determine which factor will contribute the least to the land loss in Louisiana's coastal region, we need to analyze each option and consider its impact on land disappearance.
A. Hurricanes: Hurricanes can cause significant damage to coastal areas, including erosion and flooding. The strong winds and storm surges associated with hurricanes can accelerate land loss. Therefore, this factor likely has a significant contribution.
B. Silt buildup: Silt buildup refers to the deposition of fine particles, like sediment, on the land. While it can affect local ecosystems and the depth of water bodies, it generally does not contribute directly to land disappearance. Therefore, this factor may have a relatively lower impact compared to others.
C. Erosion: Erosion is a primary factor contributing to land loss along coastlines. It involves the gradual wearing away or removal of land by water or wind. Given its direct relation to land disappearance, erosion likely has a significant contribution.
D. The levee system: Levees are man-made structures designed to prevent flooding caused by water bodies such as rivers or the ocean. While the levee system can mitigate the impact of flooding on coastal areas, it does not directly contribute to land disappearance. Therefore, this factor may have the smallest contribution compared to others.
Based on this analysis, the factor that will contribute least to the land loss in Louisiana's coastal region is D. The levee system.