(a) (i) identify specimens A(Clayey soil) and B(Sandy soil) by the feel method. [2 marks] (ii) Name two crops that would thrive well on each of specimens A ...

Answer Details

(a)(i) Identification by the feel method

• Specimen A (clayey soil): feels smooth, sticky and plastic when wet and can be moulded and rolled into a ribbon.
• Specimen B (sandy soil): feels rough and gritty, is loose and falls apart, and cannot be moulded.

(a)(ii) Two crops that thrive on each

• Specimen A (clayey soil): rice and sugarcane (also cocoa, oil palm, citrus).
• Specimen B (sandy soil): cassava and cowpea (also cashew, pineapple, coconut).

(a)(iii) Three ways specimen B (sandy soil) can be improved

1. Application of compost or farmyard manure.
2. Mulching and planting of cover crops.
3. Application of inorganic fertilizer and addition of clay.

(b)(i) Identification of specimens C and D

• Specimen C: Millipede
• Specimen D: Cow dung

(b)(ii) Three ways specimen C (millipede) is important in crop production

1. It helps to break down organic matter and adds nutrients to the soil through defecation and decay.
2. It improves soil structure and aeration.
3. It improves water percolation and enhances the cation exchange capacity of the soil.

(b)(iii) Three uses of specimen D (cow dung) in agriculture

1. Added to the soil to supply plant nutrients and improve soil fertility and structure.
2. Used for making compost and farmyard manure.
3. Used to generate biogas (fuel) and to fertilize fish ponds.