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Study the picture of a centre-pivot irrigation system below and answer the questions that follow - NSC Agricultural Technology - Question 6 - 2024 - Paper 1
Question 6
Study the picture of a centre-pivot irrigation system below and answer the questions that follow. 6.1.1 State TWO advantages of using this irrigation system. 6.1.2... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Study the picture of a centre-pivot irrigation system below and answer the questions that follow - NSC Agricultural Technology - Question 6 - 2024 - Paper 1
Step 1
State TWO advantages of using this irrigation system.
Answer
- Time saving: The centre-pivot irrigation system reduces the time required for irrigation, allowing farmers to focus on other agricultural tasks.
- Efficient irrigation: It can cover large areas uniformly, ensuring that crops receive adequate water.
Step 2
Step 3
Name TWO tips a farmer must consider before choosing the type of fertiliser to apply through a centre-pivot irrigation system.
Answer
- Choose fertilisers with a high nutrient content to ensure effective application.
- Avoid fertilisers with large particle sizes to prevent clogging in the irrigation system.
Step 4
Step 5
List THREE factors to consider when choosing a new pump for an irrigation field.
Answer
- Pressure requirements: Ensures the pump can deliver the necessary pressure for the irrigation system.
- Capacity of the pump: Determines the volume of water the pump can move efficiently.
- Durability of the pump: Ensures the pump can withstand the working conditions of the irrigation field.
Step 6
Give THREE reasons why PVC pipes are preferred over steel pipes to supply water to an irrigation system.
Answer
- PVC does not rust, adding to its longevity in the irrigation system.
- PVC is lightweight, making installation and handling easier.
- PVC is flexible, allowing for easier adjustments in the irrigation layout.
Step 7
Calculate the time it will take to empty the water source. Show ALL calculations.
Answer
Given:
- Volume of water = 72,000 litres
- Pump capacity = 120 ℓ/min
Using the formula: Time = Volume of water / Flow rate
Substituting the values: Time = 72,000 litres / 120 ℓ/min = 600 minutes.
Thus, it will take 600 minutes to empty the water source.
Step 8
Name TWO types of drainage systems that can be used to remove excess water around the buildings of a dairy farm.
Answer
- Channel drain: A system designed to collect and transport excess water away from the buildings.
- Slope drain: Utilizes the natural slope to direct water away from the structures.
Step 9
Name TWO different water purification methods that can be used to purify brackish water.
Answer
- Distillation: Involves boiling water and condensing the vapor to remove impurities.
- Reverse osmosis: A filtering process that removes contaminants by pushing water through a semi-permeable membrane.
Step 10
Explain the construction and working of the distribution field that is connected to the septic tank.
Answer
The distribution field is comprised of a narrow trench that is partially filled with gravel or crushed stone, onto which pipes or open joints are placed. This allows the discharge from the septic tank to be widely distributed through the trenches, promoting effective absorption into the surrounding soil.
Step 11
Give TWO reasons why a distribution field should NOT be built near drinking water installations or boreholes.
Answer
- Contamination risk: The distribution field can leak pathogens and harmful chemicals into the surrounding soil, risking contamination of drinking water supplies.
- Health hazards: The presence of pathogenic microorganisms in the vicinity of drinking water sources poses significant health risks.
Step 12
Name TWO instances where VRT (variable rate technology) can be used in precision farming.
Answer
- Precision planting: Tailoring seed placement according to soil variability for optimal growth.
- Application of Fertilizers/Lime: Adjusting the application rates based on soil nutrient levels for improved efficiency.