Step 1: Analyze the assertion.
- Assertion A: "Hardwood trees are found in equatorial evergreen forests." This statement is correct because equatorial regions, particularly the Amazon and Congo basins, are known for their dense hardwood forests.
Step 2: Analyze the reasoning.
- Reasoning R: "Lumbering is not developed on a commercial level in equatorial regions." This statement is also correct because although hardwood trees are abundant, the harsh climate, dense forests, and environmental concerns make commercial lumbering challenging in many equatorial regions.
Step 3: Determine the relationship between assertion and reasoning.
- While both A and R are correct, the reasoning does not fully explain the assertion. The presence of hardwood trees in equatorial regions does not directly lead to the lack of commercial lumbering; rather, other factors like climate, logistics, and environmental concerns play a more significant role in limiting commercial lumbering.
Final Answer: The correct answer is (D) Both A and R are correct but R is not the correct explanation of A.