The diagram shows an investigation to determine the percentage (%) organic matter in a soil sample - Leaving Cert Agricultural Science - Question a - 2020
Question a
The diagram shows an investigation to determine the percentage (%) organic matter in a soil sample.
(i) Identify two measurements that must be recorded during this ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:The diagram shows an investigation to determine the percentage (%) organic matter in a soil sample - Leaving Cert Agricultural Science - Question a - 2020
Step 1
Identify two measurements that must be recorded during this experiment.
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Answer
Mass of the soil sample before heating.
Mass of the soil sample after heating.
Step 2
State one safety precaution a student should take when carrying out this experiment.
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Answer
Use heat-resistant gloves when handling hot equipment.
Step 3
Analyse the results and place a tick (✓) in the correct box to show which of the soil samples is from a peaty soil.
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Answer
Sample D with 20.5% organic matter is a peaty soil.
Step 4
Justify your choice in part (iii).
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Answer
Peaty soil typically has a higher organic matter content, usually above 10%. Therefore, I would choose sample D with 20.5% organic matter as it is the highest percentage.
Step 5
Convert the percentage organic matter that you have chosen in part (iii) to organic carbon (Soil Organic Matter × 0.58). Show all calculations.
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Explain why maintaining soil organic matter is important in soil carbon sequestration.
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Answer
Maintaining soil organic matter is crucial for improving soil structure, enhancing water retention, and supporting biodiversity. It also aids in carbon sequestration by trapping carbon in the soil, thus contributing to climate change mitigation.
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