Which statement best evaluates the impact of modern roads
on the physical environment? (1 point)
Modern roads decrease habitat fragmentation.
Modern roads are designed to avoid harsh conditions,
such as deserts.
When built alongside rivers and streams, modern road
design allows the water to flow naturally.
Modern roads modify the physical environment by leading
to suburban sprawl.
Modern roads modify the physical environment by leading to suburban sprawl.
The statement that best evaluates the impact of modern roads on the physical environment is: "Modern roads modify the physical environment by leading to suburban sprawl." This statement suggests that the construction of modern roads contributes to the expansion of suburban areas, which can have significant environmental consequences such as habitat destruction, increased pollution, and loss of natural landscapes.
To evaluate the impact of modern roads on the physical environment, we need to consider the options provided and determine which one best reflects the impact of modern roads. Let's review each option:
1. Modern roads decrease habitat fragmentation:
Habitat fragmentation refers to the breaking up of large areas of natural habitat into smaller, isolated patches. While it is possible that modern roads could lead to habitat fragmentation in some cases, this statement states the opposite, suggesting that modern roads actually decrease habitat fragmentation. Since we are looking for the statement that best evaluates the impact, this option does not fully address the potential impacts of modern roads on the physical environment.
2. Modern roads are designed to avoid harsh conditions, such as deserts:
This statement implies that modern roads are specifically designed to avoid deserts and other harsh environments. While this may be true in some cases, it does not provide a holistic evaluation of the impact of modern roads on the physical environment. Therefore, this option does not sufficiently evaluate the overall impact of modern roads.
3. When built alongside rivers and streams, modern road design allows the water to flow naturally:
This statement suggests that when modern roads are constructed alongside rivers and streams, their design takes into account the natural flow of water, allowing it to continue without obstruction. This consideration can help minimize the negative impact on the physical environment and maintain the natural water flow. Therefore, this option provides a more comprehensive evaluation of the impact of modern roads.
4. Modern roads modify the physical environment by leading to suburban sprawl:
Suburban sprawl refers to the expansion of urban areas into undeveloped or rural land. This option acknowledges that modern roads can have a significant impact on the physical environment by facilitating urban sprawl. It recognizes the potential negative impact of modern roads on the natural landscape and resources.
Considering all the options, the statement that best evaluates the impact of modern roads on the physical environment is option 4: "Modern roads modify the physical environment by leading to suburban sprawl." This option recognizes the broad impact of modern roads on the environment and highlights the potential for negative consequences associated with urban expansion.