Which of the following is a major cause of deforestation in tropical rainforests?

The primary cause of deforestation in tropical rainforests is linked to agricultural activities, specifically cattle ranching and farming. This practice involves clearing vast areas of forest to create pastureland for livestock or to establish fields for crops. The economic demand for beef and agricultural products drives this deforestation, as land is converted to meet these needs.

Cattle ranching, in particular, requires extensive land areas, which leads to significant portions of the rainforest being lost. This process not only contributes to habitat destruction but also affects biodiversity, carbon storage, and the overall health of the rainforest ecosystem. By prioritizing agricultural expansion, local and global economies often overlook the ecological importance of these forests, leading to their accelerated decline.