Question

What factor, related to certain trees, contributes to the increased intensity of wildfires in coniferous and evergreen broadleaf forests?

• A. Their ability to store large amounts of water.
• B. Their emission of oily or wax-like substances.
• C. Their rapid growth rate.
• D. Their deep root systems.

Answer 1

Answer:

B. Their emission of oily or wax-like substances.

• Coniferous and evergreen broadleaf trees, like pines and eucalypts, often contain and emit flammable oily or wax-like substances (resins, terpenes, etc.). These substances act as highly volatile fuels, intensifying the fire's heat and allowing it to spread rapidly, especially through the tree canopy.