ASBOG Practice Exam 2025 – Comprehensive All-in-One Guide to Ace Your Geology Licensure!

The choice that highlights a common consequence of erosion is the loss of soil fertility. Erosion typically involves the removal of the top layer of soil, which is often the most nutrient-rich layer. This topsoil contains essential organic matter and nutrients crucial for plant growth. As this layer is eroded away, the remaining soil becomes less capable of supporting crops and vegetation, leading to diminished soil fertility. The nutrients required for healthy plant growth are washed away or blown away, resulting in poorer agricultural productivity and compromised ecosystems.

In contrast, the formation of igneous rocks is unrelated to erosion, as igneous rocks are formed from the cooling and solidification of molten rock, not from the processes associated with erosion. Although erosion can lead to the creation of new landforms, this aspect is more about the reshaping of existing landscapes rather than a direct consequence of soil fertility. Additionally, while erosion can redistribute minerals, it does not necessarily increase their availability in a manner that contributes positively to soil health. Therefore, the loss of soil fertility is the most accurate consequence of erosion among the options presented.