WONDER #667: Why Are Rainforests Important?

Question 1 of 3

Why do scientists call rainforests the “lungs” of Earth?

1. Most rainforests are shaped like human lungs.
2. The trees in the rainforests take in large amounts of carbon dioxide and produce much of the oxygen we breathe.
3. If you listen closely enough, you can hear all the animals breathing in the rainforest.
4. Rainforests are very damp places.

Question 2 of 3

What is the best evidence that rainforests have much more rainfall than other places?

1. “To be a rainforest, an area must receive at least 80 inches of rain each year.”
2. “All rainforests have a canopy, which is a layer of branches and leaves formed at the tops of the tall trees that make up the rainforest.”
3. “Scientists believe that around half of the plants and animals found on the Earth live in rainforests.”
4. “Rainforests also help to stabilize Earth’s climate.”

Question 3 of 3

Which of the following is NOT a continent that has rainforests?

1. Africa
2. Australia
3. Europe
4. South America

Check your answers online at https://www.wonderopolis.org/index.php/wonder/Why-Are-Rainforests-Important.