Red Seal Landscape Horticulturist Practice Exam

What effect do plants have on local climate?

1. They absorb waste materials

2. They decrease local humidity levels

3. They can moderate temperature and improve air quality

4. They increase noise pollution

The correct answer is: They can moderate temperature and improve air quality

Plants play a significant role in influencing local climate conditions, and one of their primary functions is to moderate temperature and improve air quality. Through the process of transpiration, plants release moisture into the atmosphere, which can help to cool the surrounding area and increase local humidity. This cooling effect is particularly noticeable in urban environments where vegetation can mitigate the heat generated by concrete and asphalt surfaces. Additionally, vegetation contributes to air quality improvement by absorbing carbon dioxide and other pollutants while releasing oxygen during photosynthesis. This natural process not only reduces the concentration of harmful gases in the atmosphere but also supports overall ecological health. In contrast, options that suggest plants absorb waste materials or decrease humidity levels do not accurately reflect their impact. While plants do play a role in filtering pollutants, their primary function is not based on waste absorption, and rather, they typically increase humidity through transpiration. The assertion that plants increase noise pollution is also inaccurate, as vegetation can often help dampen noise levels through sound absorption and barrier functions. Thus, the correct answer highlights the beneficial effects plants have on moderating temperature and enhancing air quality in their local environments.