What is a potential impact of deforestation on greenhouse gases?

The choice indicating increased carbon dioxide emissions is correct because deforestation significantly alters the balance of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. Trees and forests act as crucial carbon sinks, meaning they absorb carbon dioxide during the process of photosynthesis. When trees are cut down or burned, not only is this carbon storage capability lost, but the carbon stored in the wood is released back into the atmosphere, primarily as carbon dioxide. This increase in atmospheric carbon dioxide contributes to the greenhouse effect, leading to climate change.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately depict the consequences of deforestation. Decreased emissions would contradict the reality since the loss of trees leads to more carbon dioxide being released. Increased absorption of carbon dioxide suggests a net positive effect on climate that does not occur with deforestation, and a neutral impact would ignore the significant and detrimental increase in greenhouse gas levels associated with the removal of forested areas.