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2.1 Name FOUR functions of soil in crop production - NSC Agricultural Management Practices - Question 2 - 2019 - Paper 1
Question 2
2.1 Name FOUR functions of soil in crop production. 2.2 Contour ploughing contributes to the prevention of soil erosion. 2.2.1 Discuss how contour ploughing can be... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:2.1 Name FOUR functions of soil in crop production - NSC Agricultural Management Practices - Question 2 - 2019 - Paper 1
Step 1
2.1 Name FOUR functions of soil in crop production.
Answer
The functions of soil in crop production are:
- Soil Air Movement: Soil allows air movement, which is crucial for the respiration of plant roots and microorganisms.
- Water Infiltration: Soil facilitates water infiltration for various crop types, essential for healthy growth.
- Nutrient Storage: Soil stores essential nutrients that are vital for plant development.
- Habitat: It serves as a habitat for organisms, aiding in soil health and fertility.
Step 2
2.2.1 Discuss how contour ploughing can be used to channel surface water into dams.
Answer
Contour ploughing involves ploughing across the slope of the land rather than up and down. By following the contours, it helps to:
- Reduce Soil Erosion: It prevents soil wash-off by creating ridges and furrows along the contour lines.
- Enhance Water Retention: The structure created by these contours slows down water flow, allowing for more absorption and channeling into dams.
- Increase Water Capture: Water is effectively directed into the waterways designed to lead to dams, storing surface runoff efficiently.
Step 3
2.2.2 Explain the difference between contour ploughing and terracing.
Answer
Contour ploughing and terracing are both agricultural methods used to prevent soil erosion but differ in their approach:
- Contour Ploughing: This method involves ploughing along the contour lines of the land, preserving the natural shape of the slope.
- Terracing: This method reshapes the slope into stepped levels or terraces, significantly altering the land form to create flat areas for planting and water retention.
Step 4
2.3.1 Describe the drainability of the greyish clay soil.
Answer
Grey clay soil has moderate to poor drainage characteristics due to its fine particle size and dense structure. While it can retain moisture well, excess water can lead to poor aeration and potential root rot problems if drainage is not adequately managed.
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2.3.2 Explain the pH scale and what it means if the pH is 7,8.
Answer
The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14, indicating the acidity or alkalinity of a solution. A pH of 7 is neutral. In this context, a pH of 7.8 suggests that the soil is slightly alkaline, which generally indicates a better environment for plant growth and nutrient availability.
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2.3.4 Give advice to this young farmer on how the current method of cultivation can be changed to include conservation cultivation. Motivate your answer.
Answer
The young farmer should transition from conventional tillage to conservation cultivation methods. This can include:
- Reduced Tillage: Implementing no-till or strip-till practices will minimize soil disturbance and maintain soil structure.
- Crop Rotation: Introducing diverse crops to enhance soil fertility and health.
- Cover Cropping: Planting cover crops to improve soil organic matter, reduce erosion and weed competition.
These practices will not only conserve soil but also improve crop yields by promoting a healthier ecosystem.
Step 8
2.4 Discuss how fair labour practices can improve the positioning of buildings, facilities and equipment.
Answer
Fair labour practices can enhance productivity and work conditions, leading to better positioning of buildings and facilities by:
- Efficiency: Workers will have less need to waste time traveling long distances between tasks, allowing for better planning of the layout.
- Comfort: Well-designed environments improve worker satisfaction, enhancing overall operational efficiency.
- Safety: Establishing workplaces that minimize hazards makes it easier to follow health and safety regulations.
Step 9
2.5 Name the different types of capital in a farming venture and give ONE example of EACH.
Answer
The different types of capital in a farming venture include:
- Fixed Capital: Examples are buildings and dams, which are long-term assets.
- Working Capital: For example, livestock, implements, and equipment that are required for daily operations.
- Financial Capital: Money or credit available for investment in resources and growth.
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2.6.2 Explain the following factors to distinguish between farming methods B and C: (a) Labour requirements (b) Dependence on technology
Answer
(a) Labour Requirements:
- Method B (Extensive production) generally requires lower labour input compared to method C (Intensive production), which necessitates more hands-on management.
(b) Dependence on Technology:
- Method B relies on minimal technology, focusing on natural resources, while method C is heavily dependent on technological advancements for efficiency and productivity.
Step 12
2.6.3 Choose a method that can be regarded as organic farming from farming methods A, B and C. Motivate your answer.
Answer
Farming method A can be regarded as organic farming because it focuses on natural resources, avoiding the use of synthetic hormones, fertilizers, or chemicals, which aligns with organic farming principles by promoting environmental sustainability.
Step 13
2.7.1 Identify the type of precision farming technology that can be used to assist in dividing natural veld into camps.
Answer
The type of precision farming technology suitable for dividing natural veld into camps includes Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Drones, for mapping and monitoring the land effectively.
Step 14
2.7.2 Describe the requirements that make a camp suitable for animal production.
Answer
A suitable camp for animal production requires:
- Adequate Space: Enough grazing area to prevent overgrazing.
- Water Resources: Clean and fresh water supply must be available consistently.
- Fodder Availability: Sufficient palatable and nutritious forage for the livestock.
Step 15
2.7.3 Describe how a stock farmer can use precision farming to keep track of animals grazing in a camp without human presence.
Answer
A stock farmer can utilize precision farming techniques such as:
- GPS Tracking: Tagging animals with GPS devices to monitor their movement and location accurately.
- Remote Cameras: Employing cameras for real-time monitoring to ensure health and safety.
- Geo-fencing: Setting up virtual boundaries to alert the farmer if animals stray beyond designated grazing areas.
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2.9 A budget is prepared once and then filled. Give THREE reasons why this statement is NOT true.
Answer
This statement is false due to several reasons:
- Dynamic Market Conditions: Budgets must be constantly updated to reflect changing market conditions, prices, and unforeseen expenses.
- Performance Tracking: Regular updates allow for tracking of actual performance against budgeted values, enabling informed decision-making.
- Planning Adjustments: Budgets require adjustments for operational changes, resource availability, or changes in production plans to remain relevant and effective.