(a) Explain the term farm mechanization [2marks] (b) Mention three advantages and three disadvantages of farm mechanization. [6marks] (c) Give two merits of...

(a) Farm mechanization

Farm mechanization is the use of machines and engine-powered equipment (such as tractors and their implements) to carry out farm operations, thereby reducing the reliance on human and animal labour.

(b) Three advantages and three disadvantages of farm mechanization

Advantages:

• It ensures timeliness and speed in performing farm operations.
• It makes it possible to cultivate large areas of land.
• It reduces drudgery and the need for human labour, and raises productivity.

Disadvantages:

• It involves a high cost of purchase and maintenance.
• It causes unemployment by displacing farm labour.
• It can cause soil compaction and is unsuitable for small, fragmented lands.

(c) Two merits of using draught animals

• They are cheaper to acquire and maintain than machines and require no fuel.
• They provide manure and can be used on small farms and on rough terrain.

(d) Roles of science and technology in agricultural development

(i) Pest and disease control:

• Development of chemicals (pesticides, herbicides and fungicides) for control.
• Breeding of pest- and disease-resistant varieties.
• Provision of biological control methods and improved diagnosis of pests and diseases.

(ii) Meteorology and climatology:

• Weather forecasting to guide the planning of farm operations.
• Provision of rainfall and temperature data to guide choice of crops and planting dates.
• Early warning of drought and flood to reduce losses.