JAMB UTME - Agricultural Science - 2020
Question 1 Report
Animal which chew the cud are
Answer Details
The group of animals that chew the cud are "ruminants." Ruminants are a group of mammals that include animals such as cattle, sheep, goats, buffalo, and deer. These animals have a unique digestive system that allows them to break down tough plant material, such as grasses and leaves, by regurgitating and re-chewing their food (known as cud). This process helps to release more nutrients from the plant material, which can then be absorbed by the animal's digestive system. Amphibians, aves (birds), and reptiles do not chew the cud and have different digestive systems.
Question 3 Report
Cassava is mainly propagated by
Answer Details
Cassava is mainly propagated by cuttings. Cassava is a tropical root crop that is widely grown for its edible starchy roots. To grow cassava, farmers usually take cuttings from mature plants and plant them directly into the ground. These cuttings will then sprout roots and grow into new plants. This method of propagation is relatively simple and efficient, and it ensures that the new plants will have the same characteristics as the parent plant. Other methods of plant propagation, such as layering, budding, and growing from seedlings, can also be used, but cuttings are the most commonly used method for propagating cassava.
Question 4 Report
The most appropriate farm machinery for breaking soil is the
Answer Details
The most appropriate farm machinery for breaking soil is a plough. A plough is a tool used in farming to turn over and break up the soil. It is usually pulled by a tractor and consists of a metal blade that is designed to dig into the soil and cut it into pieces. This helps to loosen the soil, making it easier for seeds to be planted and for water and air to penetrate the ground. The plough is an important tool for preparing a field for planting, as it helps to create a fertile and well-drained environment for crops to grow in.
Question 5 Report
The national tree-planting campaign is aimed at stimulating
Answer Details
The national tree-planting campaign is aimed at stimulating afforestation. Afforestation refers to the process of establishing a forest, or stand of trees, in an area where there was no forest. The goal of the national tree-planting campaign is to increase the number of trees in a specific area, either for conservation purposes, to provide timber, or for other benefits such as improving air quality and reducing soil erosion. Taungya farming involves the planting of trees in fields, where crops are also grown. This type of farming provides benefits to both the trees and the crops, as the trees provide shade and improve soil fertility, while the crops provide food and income. Forest reservation involves setting aside forests for conservation purposes, usually to protect wildlife and their habitats. While all of these practices can contribute to improving the health and sustainability of forests, the primary focus of a national tree-planting campaign is likely to be on afforestation.
Question 6 Report
The windmill is normally used as a source of power in
Answer Details
The windmill is normally used as a source of power in pumping well water. A windmill harnesses the power of the wind to turn its blades and generate energy. This energy is then used to power a pump that brings water from a well to the surface, where it can be used for irrigation, livestock watering, or other purposes. By using a windmill, farmers and rural communities can have access to a sustainable source of water without relying on electricity from the grid.
Question 7 Report
Which of the following activities is correct about agricultural extension agent?
Answer Details
An agricultural extension agent is responsible for educating farmers on the use of improved inputs and techniques in agriculture. This includes teaching them about new and effective methods of farming, providing information about the latest technologies and techniques that can increase productivity, and helping farmers to understand the benefits of using better seeds, fertilizers, and other inputs. The goal of an agricultural extension agent is to help farmers improve their yields and make their farming operations more efficient and profitable.
Question 8 Report
Investments with long life span in agricultural economics are otherwise known as
Answer Details
The term used to describe investments with a long lifespan in agricultural economics is "capital." Capital refers to the resources, including money, property, and equipment, that are invested into a business or enterprise with the expectation of generating long-term income or profit. In agriculture, capital is often used to purchase land, build structures, buy machinery, or make other investments that will support the production of crops or livestock over a period of many years. This type of investment is different from savings deposits, which are designed to be a low-risk, short-term way of saving money, or from profit, which refers to the money made from a business after all expenses have been taken into account.
Question 9 Report
A biotic factor influencing agricultural production is
Answer Details
A biotic factor influencing agricultural production is a predator. A predator is an organism that hunts and eats other organisms, and in agriculture, predators can have a significant impact on crop production. For example, pests such as insects or rodents can damage or destroy crops, reducing the yield and quality of the harvest. To control these biotic factors, farmers may use various methods such as crop rotation, pest-resistant crops, and chemical pesticides.
Question 10 Report
Which of the following is not a sign of animal approaching parturition?
Answer Details
The option "drop in milk production" is not a sign of animal approaching parturition. Parturition refers to the process of giving birth in animals, and there are several physical signs that indicate that an animal is approaching this stage. A soft, pliable and swollen vulva, a relaxed cervix, and a full mammary gland are all common signs that an animal is getting ready to give birth. However, a drop in milk production is not a sign of this, as milk production typically increases as an animal approaches parturition.
Question 11 Report
Which of the following is not an advantage of drip-irrigation?
Answer Details
The disadvantage of drip-irrigation is that its efficiency on water distribution in steep slopes is poor. This means that if the field or the area being irrigated has a steep slope, the water may not be evenly distributed and some areas may receive more or less water compared to others. This can lead to uneven growth or drying of crops in some areas.
Question 12 Report
The soil nutrient which is important as a constituent of plant proteins and hormones is
Answer Details
Sulphur is important as a constituent of plant proteins and hormones. Sulphur is a crucial element for plants, playing a role in many of the plant's key processes, such as growth and the creation of proteins and hormones. Proteins are the building blocks of all living things, and hormones control important functions like flowering and fruiting. Without sufficient sulphur, plants can become stunted and their growth and development can be slowed down. Additionally, some crops like brassicas (e.g. broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage) are particularly sensitive to sulphur deficiency and may show visible signs of yellowing or stunted growth.
Question 13 Report
In subsistence agriculture,
Answer Details
Subsistence agriculture is a type of farming where the primary goal is to produce enough food to feed the farmer's family and sometimes a small community. The focus is on meeting the basic needs of the farmers rather than making a profit. In subsistence agriculture, yields are often not as high as in commercial agriculture because the farmers use simple tools and techniques and may not have access to modern inputs like fertilizers and pesticides. The surplus produced is small because the primary aim is to feed the family, so only a small amount is left over for sale or trade. Savings are not a priority in subsistence agriculture, as the focus is on producing enough food to meet the family's needs. The farm sizes are usually small, as the farmer only needs to cultivate enough land to feed their family. Overall, subsistence agriculture is a way of life for many farmers in developing countries, and it provides a basic level of food security for the farmers and their families.
Question 14 Report
The most efficient irrigation method on large scale farms involve the use of
Answer Details
The most efficient irrigation method for large scale farms is the use of overhead irrigation facilities, also known as center pivot or lateral move systems. This method involves a large tower in the center of the field that rotates, with long pipes extending from the tower and sprinklers attached to the pipes. The sprinklers water the crops evenly, without the water being absorbed too quickly into the ground, ensuring that the crops receive enough water to grow properly. This method is efficient because it can cover a large area, uses less water compared to flood irrigation and is easy to manage.
Question 15 Report
Farm surveying can be defined as the
Answer Details
Farm surveying can be defined as the process of making measurements on land from which maps are drawn. This involves taking measurements of the land's boundaries, elevations, and other physical features, and then using this information to create detailed maps that show the layout of the land and its features. The goal of farm surveying is to provide accurate and up-to-date information about a farm's land and structures, which can be used for various purposes, such as planning and development, assessing the land's value, or determining the best use for the land.
Question 16 Report
Which of the following factors usually affects the colour of egg yolk?
Answer Details
The main factor that affects the color of egg yolk is the type of feed that the laying hen eats. The yolk gets its color from pigments found in the foods that the hen consumes, such as yellow and orange pigments from corn, marigold petals, and other yellow and orange plants. If a hen eats a diet rich in yellow and orange pigments, the yolk will be a deeper yellow color. On the other hand, if a hen eats a diet that lacks these pigments, the yolk will be lighter in color. The other factors, such as the age of the hen and the type of housing, may also have some impact, but to a much lesser extent compared to the type of feed.
Question 18 Report
The damage to the stem of maize plants resulting in hollowness and lodging is most likely caused by
Answer Details
The most likely cause of the damage to the stem of maize plants resulting in hollowness and lodging is stem borers. Stem borers are insects that feed on the inside of the stem of maize plants, causing it to become hollow and eventually collapse, a condition known as lodging. The damage from stem borers can reduce the yield and quality of maize crops, making it an important pest to control. Rodents, grasscutters, and weevils can also cause damage to maize plants, but stem borers are specifically known for causing damage to the stem and resulting in hollowness and lodging.
Question 19 Report
The mating of a white fulani bull and an N'dama cow could be termed?
Answer Details
The mating of a white fulani bull and an N'dama cow is called cross breeding. Cross breeding is the mating of two animals from different breeds, or sometimes even different species, with the aim of creating offspring with desirable traits from both parents. In this case, the white fulani bull and N'dama cow are two different breeds, therefore their mating would be considered cross breeding.
Question 20 Report
Which of the following is not a sign of heat in farm animals?
Answer Details
Udder enlargement is not a sign of heat in farm animals. Udder enlargement is a sign of pregnancy or lactation in farm animals and is not related to heat. The other three options, loss of appetite, restlessness, and grunting, are common signs of heat or estrus in farm animals. During estrus, the female animal is receptive to mating and these signs can indicate to farmers that the animal is ready to breed.
Question 23 Report
To which of the following crops does the term 'ginning' apply?
Answer Details
The term "ginning" applies to cotton crops. Ginning is the process of separating the cotton fibers from the seeds and other impurities. The seeds are removed and the fibers are cleaned, making it easier to spin and weave into fabric. Ginning is an important step in the processing of cotton, as it allows for the production of high-quality cotton fiber that is used in the manufacture of various textiles and other products. Kenaf, cocoa, and groundnut are not crops that are associated with ginning. Kenaf is a fiber crop that is used in the production of various products, including paper and textiles. Cocoa is a crop that is used to produce cocoa powder and chocolate. Groundnut is a crop that is grown for its edible seeds, which are used for food and oil.
Question 24 Report
Which of the following groups of crops requires a nursery?
Answer Details
All of the groups of crops listed can be grown from seedlings in a nursery, but the specific crops grown in a nursery depend on the farmer's goals and resources. A nursery is a place where young plants are grown until they are big enough to be transplanted into the field. This allows farmers to control the growing conditions, such as temperature, moisture, and light, and to protect the young plants from disease and pests. Crop selection for a nursery will often depend on factors such as the climate, soil type, and market demand for the crops. For example, tomato, cotton, and sorghum are often grown in nurseries in regions with hot and dry climates, while crops such as rice, maize, and cocoa are more commonly grown in nurseries in regions with a tropical or subtropical climate. In conclusion, all of the groups of crops listed can be grown in a nursery, but the specific crops grown in a nursery will depend on various factors such as the climate, soil type, and market demand.
Question 25 Report
Given a normal situation, what effect will an increase in the supply of cowpea have on its market price? The price
Answer Details
An increase in the supply of cowpea will generally lead to a decrease in its market price. This is because, with more cowpea available, there is greater competition among sellers to find buyers for their product, which puts downward pressure on the price. Think of it like this: if there are many people trying to sell the same product, each person will have to lower their price to attract buyers and make a sale. The same is true for cowpea. In a normal market situation, the law of supply and demand states that when the supply of a product increases, the price of the product will decrease, assuming everything else remains constant. This is because the increased supply creates an excess of the product, making it more readily available and easier for consumers to find. With more supply and no change in demand, the price drops to encourage people to buy more.
Question 26 Report
Which of the following is an example of igneous rock?
Answer Details
Granite is an example of igneous rock. Igneous rocks are formed from the solidification of molten rock (magma or lava). The process can occur below the Earth's surface (intrusive igneous rocks) or on the surface (extrusive igneous rocks). Granite is a type of intrusive igneous rock that is formed from the slow cooling and solidification of magma deep beneath the Earth's surface. It is composed of minerals such as feldspar, quartz, and mica, which give it a distinctive appearance and texture.
Question 27 Report
An example of grain legume is
Answer Details
An example of a grain legume is pea. Grain legumes are plants that produce seeds that are used for food and feed. They are part of the legume family, which also includes beans, lentils, and peanuts. Peas are a type of grain legume that are small, round, and green in color. They are a good source of protein, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals. They can be eaten raw, cooked, or used as an ingredient in a variety of dishes.
Question 28 Report
Spermatozoa are produced in the
Answer Details
Spermatozoa are produced in the testicles. The testicles are part of the male reproductive system and are responsible for producing and storing sperm. Sperm are the male reproductive cells that are necessary for fertilization, which is the process by which sperm combine with an egg to form an embryo. The testicles are located outside the body in a sac called the scrotum. This location helps to maintain a temperature that is cooler than the body, which is necessary for optimal sperm production. The production of sperm is a continuous process that starts during puberty and continues throughout a man's life.
Question 29 Report
During the processes of soil formation, the cracks or crevices that are first noticed on the rocks are normally caused by
Answer Details
The cracks or crevices that are first noticed on rocks during soil formation are caused by temperature changes. As the temperature fluctuates, it causes the rocks to expand and contract. This repeated expansion and contraction leads to the formation of cracks and crevices in the rocks. Over time, these cracks and crevices can become deeper and wider, and eventually, soil can accumulate in them, leading to soil formation.
Question 30 Report
Crop rotation has the following effects on the soil except
Answer Details
The option that does not describe an effect of crop rotation on the soil is "predisposing soil to leaching". Leaching is the process of soil erosion by water, where water removes nutrients and minerals from the soil. Crop rotation can have the opposite effect on the soil, by improving its structure and maintaining its fertility, which can help to retain nutrients and minerals in the soil. In simple terms, crop rotation helps to keep the soil healthy and productive by alternating different types of crops in a specific order, which helps to prevent the build-up of soil pests, improve the soil structure, and maintain soil fertility.
Question 31 Report
Which of the following is not component of soil?
Answer Details
Texture is not a component of soil. Texture refers to the relative proportions of different sized soil particles such as sand, silt, and clay that make up the soil. These particles affect the physical properties of the soil, such as its structure, porosity, and water-holding capacity. The other three options, air, water, and organic matter, are all actual components of soil, as they are all present within the soil and play important roles in the soil's health and fertility.
Question 32 Report
The diagram above shows parts of a plough.
Study it and answer this question.
The part labelled I in the diagram is the
Answer Details
Question 33 Report
Maize is a very important crop because apart from serving as a staple, it
Question 34 Report
The quantity of rice that a consumer is willing and able to buy during a given period is simply the consumer's
Answer Details
The quantity of rice that a consumer is willing and able to buy during a given period is the consumer's demand for rice. Demand for rice refers to the amount of rice that a consumer is willing and able to buy at a specific price. When the price of rice goes up, demand for rice may go down, and vice versa. This relationship between price and demand is a key concept in economics and helps to determine the market price for a good or service.
Question 35 Report
Agricultural extension programme would succeed in disseminating new ideas to farmers except if the programme
Answer Details
Question 36 Report
Which of the following will be responsible for the poor yield of fertile soil in a high rainfall area?
Answer Details
The most likely cause of poor yield of fertile soil in a high rainfall area is leaching of soil nutrients. This is because high rainfall can wash away valuable nutrients and minerals from the soil, making it less fertile and less able to support plant growth. The nutrients are carried away by water, especially in areas with high rainfall, and deposited elsewhere, which makes the soil less rich in nutrients over time. This can be prevented by using proper soil conservation techniques like crop rotation, adding organic matter, and using appropriate fertilizer. Low pH value of land can also affect plant growth, as plants have a preferred range of soil pH for optimal growth. If the soil pH is too low, it can make certain nutrients unavailable to plants and result in poor growth. Lack of soil microbes can also impact plant growth, as these microbes play an important role in breaking down organic matter and releasing nutrients for plants to use. High alkalinity of soil can also affect plant growth, as some plants are sensitive to high levels of alkalinity and may struggle to absorb necessary nutrients.
Question 37 Report
Artificial scarcity of agricultural produce is often caused by the following marketing agents except
Answer Details
Question 38 Report
Management practices in a piggery include the following except
Answer Details
The management practice in a piggery that is not included is weekly vaccination of pigs. Disinfecting pens helps prevent the spread of disease by killing germs and bacteria. Regular cleaning of feed and water troughs ensures that the pigs have access to clean food and water, promoting their health and well-being. Isolating sick animals helps prevent the spread of disease to healthy pigs, and is an important part of disease control in a piggery. However, weekly vaccination of pigs is not a standard practice in a piggery. Pig vaccination schedules vary depending on the specific disease being targeted, the age and health of the pigs, and other factors. Typically, pig vaccination is done on a regular basis, but not necessarily every week. It is important to consult with a veterinarian to develop an appropriate vaccination schedule for your pigs.
Question 39 Report
The recommended agricultural practice in farm settlement scheme is
Answer Details
The recommended agricultural practice in farm settlement schemes is mixed farming. Mixed farming involves the integration of both crop and livestock production on the same farm. This approach provides farmers with a more diverse and stable source of income, as they can earn money from both crops and animals. Additionally, mixed farming can help to improve soil fertility and reduce the risk of crop failure, as the manure produced by livestock can be used as a natural fertilizer for crops. This type of agricultural practice is considered to be more sustainable and resilient than relying solely on one type of production, such as cash crop production or poultry farming.
Question 40 Report
Answer Details
The main purpose of including leguminous crops, such as beans and peas, in pastures is to serve as a source of proteins for livestock. These crops are high in protein and provide an important source of nutrition for animals, helping to keep them healthy and productive. Additionally, leguminous crops help to improve the quality of the soil by fixing nitrogen, which makes it more fertile and better able to support other plants.
