WAEC SSCE - Geography - 1997
Question 5 Report
In which of the following best explains the decrease in temperature with height within the lower layers of the atmosphere?
Answer Details
Question 6 Report
Urban population growth problems include all the following except
Answer Details
The correct answer is "Birth control". Birth control is not a problem associated with urban population growth, as it refers to the use of methods to prevent pregnancy and is a personal decision made by individuals. The other options listed are all common problems associated with urban population growth. Unemployment, poor housing, insufficient food supply, and inadequate health facilities are often the result of rapid urbanization, as large numbers of people move from rural areas to cities in search of better opportunities. These issues can lead to overcrowding, poor living conditions, and health problems.
Question 7 Report
The savanna lands of East Africa are best known for their
Answer Details
The savanna lands of East Africa are best known for their wildlife. These areas are home to a variety of wild animals such as lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, and many others. The grassy plains and open woodlands provide a natural habitat for these animals, making it a popular destination for tourists who want to go on safari and see them in their natural environment. The Maasai Mara National Reserve in Kenya and the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania are among the most popular wildlife reserves in the world, attracting thousands of visitors every year.
Question 8 Report
The Kabora Bassa dam is located on River
Answer Details
The Kabora Bassa dam is located on the Zambesi River.
Question 9 Report
The planet with the shortest orbit around the sun is
Answer Details
The planet with the shortest orbit around the sun is Mercury. It takes Mercury only about 88 Earth days to complete one orbit around the sun, making it the closest planet to the sun. Mercury's proximity to the sun also means it has a very hot surface temperature, with temperatures reaching up to 800 degrees Fahrenheit (430 degrees Celsius) during the day and dropping to -290 degrees Fahrenheit (-180 degrees Celsius) at night.
Question 10 Report
Which of the following is not a feature of river erosion?
Answer Details
Deltas are not a feature of river erosion. River erosion occurs when the flowing water of a river wears away at the surrounding rock and soil over time. This erosion can lead to the formation of various landforms such as waterfalls, gorges, V-shaped valleys, and interlocking spurs. However, deltas are not formed by the process of erosion. Deltas are formed when sediment, such as sand and silt, is carried by a river and then deposited at the mouth of the river where it meets a larger body of water, such as a lake or an ocean. Over time, the deposited sediment builds up, creating a delta landform. This process is known as deposition, not erosion.
Question 11 Report
The process by which the earth's surface is generally reshaped and lowered is known as
Answer Details
The process by which the Earth's surface is generally reshaped and lowered is known as denudation. Denudation involves the wearing away of the Earth's surface by various agents of erosion such as water, wind, ice, and gravity. Over time, these agents of erosion gradually remove or strip away the top layers of rock, soil, and other materials, causing the Earth's surface to become smoother and lower. Denudation can occur on a small scale, such as the gradual wearing away of rocks by a river, or on a larger scale, such as the formation of canyons or valleys by glaciers or tectonic activity.
Question 12 Report
In humid climates, the process by which dissolved minerals in a horizon of the soil are transported downwards is known as
Answer Details
Question 13 Report
The atmospheric condition of a place over a long period of time refers to its
Answer Details
The atmospheric condition of a place over a long period of time refers to its climate. Climate is the average weather pattern of a place over a period of at least 30 years. It includes factors such as temperature, rainfall, humidity, wind, and other weather conditions. Climate is an important factor in determining the type of vegetation, animals, and human activities that can thrive in a particular region. It helps us understand how different regions of the world are affected by natural phenomena such as hurricanes, droughts, and floods.
Question 15 Report
The major useful component of the atmosphere is
Answer Details
The major useful component of the atmosphere is oxygen. Oxygen makes up about 21% of the air we breathe, and it is essential for the survival of most living organisms, including humans. Oxygen is used by our bodies to break down food and release energy, a process known as cellular respiration. It is also important for combustion, which is the process of burning fuel to produce heat and energy. In addition, oxygen is involved in the formation of ozone, which is a protective layer in the upper atmosphere that helps to absorb harmful ultraviolet radiation from the sun. Without oxygen, life as we know it would not be possible on Earth.
Question 17 Report
Which of the following affects the flow of ocean currents?
Answer Details
The correct option that affects the flow of ocean currents is Earth's rotation. Earth's rotation causes the Coriolis effect, which deflects ocean currents to the right in the Northern Hemisphere and to the left in the Southern Hemisphere. The rotation of the Earth also creates differences in pressure, which drive the flow of ocean currents. The other options listed do not directly affect the flow of ocean currents. Latitude affects temperature and precipitation patterns, humidity is a measure of atmospheric moisture, longitude is a measure of east-west distance, and ocean depth affects the speed and direction of ocean currents.
Question 18 Report
One of the major threats to fruit farming in the Mediterranean regions of Africa is the
Answer Details
Question 19 Report
Which of the following town is paired with wrong environmental hazard?
Answer Details
Question 20 Report
Soils of the rainforest are rich in humus because of the
Answer Details
The soils of the rainforest are rich in humus because of the large quantity of decayed leaves. In the rainforest, there is a dense vegetation cover with a variety of plant species. The canopy of the trees forms a dense layer that blocks out much of the sunlight at the surface. This leads to a lack of photosynthesis in the lower layers, and dead organic matter accumulates on the forest floor. This organic matter gradually decomposes to form humus, which is a nutrient-rich layer of soil. The heavy rainfall in the rainforest helps to accelerate the decomposition process, as it provides the moisture necessary for the breakdown of organic matter. This humus layer provides essential nutrients for the growth of the rainforest vegetation, and it also helps to retain moisture in the soil.
Question 21 Report
Which of the following is a major irrigation scheme on the Nile Valley?
Answer Details
The major irrigation scheme on the Nile Valley is the Managil extension. This scheme is located in Sudan and is one of the largest irrigation systems in the country. It is designed to irrigate the Managil and Rahad plains in eastern Sudan, covering an area of about 8,700 square kilometers. The scheme has several canals, pumping stations, and reservoirs, which are used to distribute water to the farms in the area. The water for the scheme is drawn from the Blue Nile River and is used to grow a variety of crops, including cotton, sorghum, and vegetables.
Question 22 Report
When molten magma solidifies along bedding planes the feature formed is known as
Answer Details
Question 24 Report
All the following are associated with mining except
Answer Details
Exfoliation is not typically associated with mining, while the other options are. Mining activities often involve digging deep into the earth's surface, which can cause erosion and deforestation as trees and other vegetation are removed. Pollution is also a major concern associated with mining, as toxic chemicals and waste materials can be released into the environment. Dumping of waste materials, including tailings and overburden, is also a common practice in mining, which can lead to further pollution and environmental degradation. Exfoliation, on the other hand, refers to the shedding or peeling of a material in thin layers, usually due to weathering or other natural processes. While it is possible that mining activities could indirectly contribute to exfoliation by altering the natural environment, exfoliation itself is not a direct result of mining activities.
Question 25 Report
Stars tend to from cluster known as
Answer Details
Stars tend to form cluster known as galaxies. A galaxy is a massive system of stars, dust, and gas that is held together by gravitational forces. There are billions of galaxies in the universe, and they come in different shapes and sizes. Our own solar system is located within the Milky Way galaxy, which is a barred spiral galaxy. Galaxies can contain anywhere from a few million to a trillion stars, as well as various types of interstellar matter such as gas, dust, and dark matter.
Question 27 Report
A radiation fog is likely to develop when there is
Answer Details
A radiation fog is likely to develop when there is a rapid loss of heat by radiation on clear, calm nights. During the day, the sun heats the earth and air above it, and as the air warms, it rises and cool air from surrounding areas takes its place. At night, the opposite occurs: the earth and air cool, and the cool air sinks, replacing the warm air. If the sky is clear and winds are calm, the earth and air can continue to cool rapidly by radiation, causing the temperature to drop and the air to become saturated with moisture. This can result in the formation of a radiation fog, which can reduce visibility and affect transportation and other activities.
Question 28 Report
Which of the following factors least explains the variations in the natural vegetation cover in Nigeria?
Answer Details
Man least explains the variations in the natural vegetation cover in Nigeria. While man's activities such as deforestation and agriculture can have a significant impact on the natural vegetation cover, the other factors listed (temperature, rain, relief, and soil) are natural factors that directly influence the growth and distribution of vegetation. Human activities are only secondary causes of changes in vegetation cover.
Question 29 Report
Which of the following activities will lead to deterioration of the environment?
Answer Details
Overgrazing will lead to deterioration of the environment. Overgrazing happens when there are too many animals grazing on a particular piece of land. As a result, the vegetation is unable to regenerate and soil erosion occurs, which can lead to desertification. This leads to the destruction of the natural habitat, loss of biodiversity and decreased soil fertility, which in turn affects agriculture and food production. On the other hand, activities such as planting of trees, contour ploughing, afforestation and creation of shelter belts help in conserving the environment by preventing soil erosion and improving soil fertility.
Question 31 Report
Which of the following crops requires sandy porous and well aerated soils for growth?
Answer Details
The crop that requires sandy, porous, and well-aerated soils for growth is groundnut, also known as peanuts. This is because groundnuts are a type of legume that have a taproot system, which means they need deep, well-draining soils to develop their roots and access water and nutrients. Sandy soils are good for groundnuts because they allow for good drainage and aeration, which prevents waterlogging and root rot. The porosity of sandy soils also allows for easy root penetration, which helps the plant to establish quickly and grow vigorously. Overall, groundnuts thrive in soils that are rich in organic matter, well-draining, and well-aerated.
Question 32 Report
In Southern Africa, the Mediterranean vegetation can be found in the areas around
Answer Details
The Mediterranean vegetation can be found in the areas around Cape Town, which is located in the southwestern region of South Africa. This region has a Mediterranean climate characterized by mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. The Mediterranean vegetation is adapted to these conditions and includes plants such as fynbos, which are endemic to this region. The fynbos vegetation is known for its biodiversity and is considered a global biodiversity hotspot. It is also an important habitat for many species of animals, including birds, mammals, and reptiles.
Question 33 Report
The mean annual range of temperature of a place is obtained by
Answer Details
The mean annual range of temperature of a place is the difference between the highest and lowest mean monthly temperatures for the year. This is which involves finding the mean temperature for each month of the year, and then subtracting the lowest mean monthly temperature from the highest mean monthly temperature. This value gives an indication of the variability of temperature over the course of the year at that location.
Question 34 Report
The substance that cements soil particles together is
Answer Details
The substance that cements soil particles together is colloids. Colloids are particles that are smaller than sand particles and are found in soil. They have a large surface area and can attract and hold water, nutrients, and other particles, which help to bind soil particles together. This binding effect creates a stable soil structure and prevents erosion. So, colloids are an essential component of soil and are responsible for its fertility and productivity.
Question 35 Report
Which of the following zones in Nigeria has least concentration of manufacturing industries?
Answer Details
The zone in Nigeria that has the least concentration of manufacturing industries is the North-Western zone. This is because the North-Western zone is predominantly agrarian, with a focus on livestock farming and crop cultivation. As a result, the zone has limited industrial development and lacks the necessary infrastructure and resources to support a thriving manufacturing sector. In contrast, other zones such as the Western zone and South-Eastern zone have a long history of industrialization and are home to some of Nigeria's largest and most developed cities, such as Lagos and Onitsha. Overall, while the North-Western zone has enormous potential for economic growth, its focus on agriculture means that it is currently the least developed in terms of manufacturing industries.
Question 36 Report
Which of the following countries is noted for its problem of population pressure?
Answer Details
Question 37 Report
All the following are characteristics of a nucleated settlement except that
Answer Details
Question 38 Report
The sparse population of the Middle Belt of West Africa could be traced to all the following factors except
Answer Details
Question 40 Report
''The climate is characterised by an alternate hot, rainly season and cool, dry season. The vegetation consists mostly of tall grass and short trees which are mostly deciduous''The climate being described is the
Answer Details
The climate being described is a savanna. A savanna is a type of tropical climate characterized by distinct rainy and dry seasons. In the rainy season, there is a lot of rainfall, and in the dry season, there is little or no rainfall. The vegetation of savannas typically consists of tall grasses and some trees that are mostly deciduous, meaning they shed their leaves during the dry season to conserve water.
Question 41 Report
The earth's axis is inclined to the plane of the ecliptic at an angle of
Answer Details
Question 42 Report
Which of the statements is not correct about sedimentary rocks? They
Answer Details
The statement that is not correct about sedimentary rocks is: "are formed in upland areas." Sedimentary rocks are actually formed in low-lying areas, such as riverbeds, lakes, and oceans, where sediment accumulates over time and is eventually compacted and cemented together. This is why they often contain fossils, as the remains of organisms can become trapped in the sediment and preserved over millions of years. Sedimentary rocks are usually in layers, non-crystalline, and could be formed by water.
Question 43 Report
A continuous urban or industrial stretch resulting from the merging of cities is called
Answer Details
A continuous urban or industrial stretch resulting from the merging of cities is called a conurbation. A conurbation is a region comprising several cities, towns, and suburban areas that have grown and merged together to form a continuous built-up area. This process is often driven by urbanization, population growth, and economic development. Conurbations can be found in many parts of the world and are often associated with high levels of economic activity, transportation infrastructure, and social interaction. Examples of conurbations around the world include the Greater London area in the UK, the Randstad in the Netherlands, and the BosWash corridor in the eastern United States. Conurbations can also have significant environmental and social impacts, including traffic congestion, air pollution, and urban sprawl, as well as opportunities for economic growth and cultural exchange.
Question 45 Report
Which of the following peoples can be found in most parts of the following peoples can be found in most parts of West African? The
Answer Details
The correct option is Hausa. The Hausa people are found in most parts of West Africa, particularly in Nigeria, Niger, Ghana, and Cameroon. They are one of the largest ethnic groups in Africa, and their language, Hausa, is widely spoken across the region as a lingua franca. The Hausa people have a long history of trade and commerce and have played a significant role in the economic and cultural development of West Africa.
Question 46 Report
Exfoliation is weathering process associated with
Answer Details
Exfoliation is a weathering process associated with hot, arid regions. It is a mechanical weathering process that involves the peeling off of the outer layer of rocks in sheets or layers due to extreme temperature changes. In hot and arid regions, rocks experience intense heating during the day and rapid cooling at night, leading to the expansion and contraction of the outer layer of the rocks. Over time, this process causes the outer layer to weaken and eventually crack and peel off, resulting in the exfoliation of the rock surface. This process is also known as onion skin weathering due to its resemblance to the peeling of onion layers. Examples of areas with exfoliation include deserts such as the Sahara and the Mojave Desert.
Question 47 Report
A vertical cross section of soil layers differing in colour, texture and other characteristics is called
Answer Details
The correct answer is "soil profile". A soil profile is a vertical cross-section of the soil layers, showing the different layers of soil and their characteristics such as color, texture, and composition. These layers are called soil horizons, and each horizon has distinct characteristics that are determined by factors such as climate, vegetation, and topography. By studying the soil profile, scientists can gain insight into the soil's history and properties, which can be useful for agriculture, land use planning, and environmental management.
Question 49 Report
The energy received from the sun at a particular place is called
Answer Details
The energy received from the sun at a particular place is called insolation. Insolation is short for "incoming solar radiation" and refers to the amount of solar energy that reaches the Earth's surface. This energy is received in the form of electromagnetic waves, which include visible light, ultraviolet (UV) radiation, and infrared (IR) radiation. The amount of insolation received at a given location is affected by a variety of factors, including latitude, time of year, cloud cover, and atmospheric conditions. Insolation is an important factor in many natural processes, including photosynthesis, evaporation, and atmospheric circulation.
Question 51 Report
Long very cold winters, low annual rainfall with 24 hours of darkness in the middle of winter'' The climate being described is the
Answer Details
The climate being described is the tundra type. This type of climate is characterized by long, very cold winters, low annual rainfall, and short, cool summers. It occurs in regions close to the poles, where the sun is low on the horizon or absent for long periods of time during the winter months, resulting in 24 hours of darkness in the middle of winter. The tundra type is associated with low-growing vegetation, permafrost, and a lack of trees due to the harsh environmental conditions.
Question 52 Report
A mountain that has been denuded is called
Answer Details
A mountain that has been denuded is called a residual mountain. Denudation is the process by which the surface of the earth is lowered through the removal of rocks and soil by agents such as wind, water, and ice. Residual mountains are formed when resistant rocks or hard rocks are left behind after the denudation process has taken place. These mountains often have a flat top and steep sides, and are also referred to as inselbergs. They can be found in various parts of the world, including Africa, Australia, and South America.
Question 53 Report
The major effect of flooding in Nigeria is the
Answer Details
The major effect of flooding in Nigeria is the destruction of farms and houses. Flooding occurs when water overflows from its natural channels and covers the surrounding land. This can result in the destruction of homes, farmlands, and other properties, which can lead to displacement of people and loss of livelihoods. Flooding can also cause injuries and loss of lives, as well as the spread of water-borne diseases. The dumping of refuse along river channels can exacerbate the impact of flooding by blocking drainage channels and increasing the risk of flooding.
Question 54 Report
All the following rocks are metamorphic except
Answer Details
The question asks which of the given options is NOT a metamorphic rock. Metamorphic rocks are formed by the transformation of pre-existing rocks due to heat, pressure, and chemical reactions. Therefore, the answer is the option that is NOT a metamorphic rock. - Gabbro: This is an igneous rock that is formed from the solidification of molten magma. It is not a metamorphic rock. - Therefore, the answer is gabbro. In summary, the rock that is not metamorphic is gabbro.
Question 55 Report
Which of the following statements is not correct?
Answer Details
The statement "Rocks that are changed by great heat and pressure are called sedimentary rocks" is not correct. Sedimentary rocks are actually formed through the accumulation and solidification of sediment, while rocks that are changed by great heat and pressure are called metamorphic rocks. Metamorphic rocks are formed from other rocks that undergo extreme heat and pressure, resulting in the recrystallization of minerals and the development of new textures and structures. Examples of metamorphic rocks include marble and gneiss. Igneous rocks are formed through the solidification of molten magma, and examples include basalt and granite. Volcanic rocks are a type of igneous rock that are formed through the extrusion of magma onto the earth's surface. Igneous rocks generally do not contain fossils, as the intense heat and pressure involved in their formation destroys any organic matter.
Question 56 Report
Carnivores are important in the food chain because they
Answer Details
Carnivores are important in the food chain because they feed on other animals. They are at a higher trophic level and therefore are responsible for regulating the populations of herbivores that they prey on. This helps to maintain balance in the ecosystem, preventing overgrazing and allowing plant populations to recover. Additionally, as they consume a variety of prey, carnivores also help to prevent any one prey species from becoming too dominant, which can also upset the balance of the ecosystem. By doing so, carnivores play a crucial role in maintaining the biodiversity and stability of an ecosystem.
Question 57 Report
(a) On a sketch map of Africa, locate and name:
(i) one area with an equatorial climate
(ii) one area with a desert climate
(iii) one major town in each area
(b) Describe three major characteristics of any one of the climatic types shown on your map
(c) identify any three ways in which natural vegetation has adapted to the climate in the area selected in (b)
Answer Details
None
Question 58 Report
(a) In what four ways does a town differ from a village?
(b) Describe with examples three functions which a town may perform for a village
None
Answer Details
None
Question 59 Report
(a) Highlight any five features of rotational bush fallowing as practised in WestAfrica
(b) State four advantages of this system of agriculture
(c) Outline any four disadvantages of the system
Answer Details
None
Question 60 Report
On a sketch map of Nigeria, locate and name:
(i) the rivers Imo and Kaduna
(ii) two H EP stations
(iii) two thermal stations
(iv) two oil refineries
(b) In what three ways has the oil industry contributed to the economic development of Nigeria?
(c) State four problems arising from the exploitation of crude oil in Nigeria
Answer Details
None
Question 61 Report
(a) Using specific examples, describe any three causes of air pollution
(b) Outline three major effects of air pollution
(c) Suggest any three ways of controlling air pollution
Question 62 Report
(a)(i) Name any one country in Europe that trades with Nigeria
(ii) Identify any two commodities exported by each trading partner
(b) State four benefits which both countries derive from their trade relations
(c) Highlight any four problems facing the trade between the two countries in (a)(i) above
Answer Details
None
Question 63 Report
(a) Draw an outline map of Africa and on it, locate the
(i) rivers Zambesi, Nile and Zaire
(ii) mounts Cameroun, Drakensberg and Tibesti
(iii) EastAfrican Rift Valley
(b) Using specific examples explain three effects of mountains on the climate of Africa
(c) Describe any four ways in which the highlands of Africa are of economic importance
Answer Details
None
Question 64 Report
(a) Name four irrigation schemes within the Nile Basin(two in Egypt and two in Sudan)
(b) Select any one of the schemes and describe the factors which have favoured its development
(c) Outline the contributions of the scheme in (b) above to the economic development of the area
(d) Highlight any three problems associated with irrigation schemes in the Nile Valley
Question 65 Report
(a) Draw a sketch map of Nigeria and on it locate and name:
(i) the Niger-Benue trough
(ii) the rivers Niger and Benue
(iii) one confluence town
(iv) Bacita and Numan
(b) Describe the commercial production of sugarcane in the Niger-Benue Trough under the following headings:
(i) method of cultivation
(ii) method of harvesting
(iii) economic importance
(i) Method of Cultivation
1. Land Preparation: The land is first cleared of any vegetation, and then it is plowed and harrowed to create a fine tilth suitable for planting. This preparation ensures that the soil is loose and aerated, which is ideal for root development.
2. Planting: Sugarcane is typically propagated through vegetative means using cane cuttings known as setts. These setts are pieces of mature cane with at least one bud. The setts are planted in furrows about 8-10 cm deep and spaced 1-1.5 meters apart, depending on the variety and local practices. The furrows are then covered with soil.
3. Irrigation: Adequate water supply is crucial for sugarcane growth. In the Niger-Benue Trough, irrigation methods such as furrow or drip irrigation are commonly used to ensure consistent moisture levels.
4. Fertilization: Fertilizers, both organic and inorganic, are applied to supply essential nutrients. Nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium are particularly important for cane growth. Fertilizer application is usually done in stages to match the growth phases of the crop
5. Weed Control: Weeds are controlled through mechanical means like hoeing and using herbicides. Effective weed management is crucial to reduce competition for nutrients and water.
6. Pest and Disease Management: Regular monitoring and control measures are employed to manage pests and diseases. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies, including biological controls and selective use of pesticides, are used.
7. Intercropping: Sometimes, sugarcane is intercropped with other short-duration crops to maximize land use and improve soil health.
(ii) Method of Harvesting
1. Maturity Check: Sugarcane is usually ready for harvest 12-18 months after planting, depending on the variety and growing conditions. Harvesting is timed to coincide with the peak sugar content in the cane.
2. Cutting: The canes are cut close to the ground using machetes or mechanical harvesters. Manual cutting is labor-intensive but allows for selective harvesting, while mechanical harvesters can cover large areas quickly.
3. Topping: The tops of the cane plants, which consist of leaves and immature cane, are removed. This helps reduce the volume of material that needs to be transported and processed.
4. Bundling and Transport: The cut canes are bundled and transported to the sugar mill for processing. In some areas, oxen carts, tractors, or trucks are used for transportation, depending on the infrastructure.
5. Post-Harvest Handling: Once at the mill, the sugarcane is processed promptly to minimize sugar loss. Delays in processing can lead to a decrease in the sugar content due to microbial activity.
(iii) Economic Importance
1. Employment: Sugarcane cultivation and processing create numerous jobs, from farm laborers to factory workers, contributing to local employment and income generation.
2. Revenue Generation: Sugarcane is a valuable cash crop. The sale of sugar and its by-products (like molasses and bagasse) generates substantial revenue for farmers and contributes to the national economy
3. Industrial Development: The sugarcane industry stimulates the development of related industries, including sugar mills, ethanol production plants, and paper manufacturing from bagasse, fostering industrial growth.
4. Foreign Exchange: Sugar and related products can be significant export commodities, earning foreign exchange for the country and improving the balance of trade.
5. Infrastructure Improvement: The establishment of large-scale sugarcane farms and processing plants often leads to infrastructure development, such as roads, electricity, and water supply systems, benefiting the broader community.
6. Energy Production: Bagasse, a by-product of sugarcane processing, can be used as a biofuel to generate electricity, contributing to the energy mix and promoting renewable energy sources.
7. Food Security: Sugar produced from sugarcane is a staple in the diet, and its availability supports food security. Additionally, the cultivation of sugarcane can sometimes be intercropped with food crops, enhancing overall food production.
Answer Details
(i) Method of Cultivation
1. Land Preparation: The land is first cleared of any vegetation, and then it is plowed and harrowed to create a fine tilth suitable for planting. This preparation ensures that the soil is loose and aerated, which is ideal for root development.
2. Planting: Sugarcane is typically propagated through vegetative means using cane cuttings known as setts. These setts are pieces of mature cane with at least one bud. The setts are planted in furrows about 8-10 cm deep and spaced 1-1.5 meters apart, depending on the variety and local practices. The furrows are then covered with soil.
3. Irrigation: Adequate water supply is crucial for sugarcane growth. In the Niger-Benue Trough, irrigation methods such as furrow or drip irrigation are commonly used to ensure consistent moisture levels.
4. Fertilization: Fertilizers, both organic and inorganic, are applied to supply essential nutrients. Nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium are particularly important for cane growth. Fertilizer application is usually done in stages to match the growth phases of the crop
5. Weed Control: Weeds are controlled through mechanical means like hoeing and using herbicides. Effective weed management is crucial to reduce competition for nutrients and water.
6. Pest and Disease Management: Regular monitoring and control measures are employed to manage pests and diseases. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies, including biological controls and selective use of pesticides, are used.
7. Intercropping: Sometimes, sugarcane is intercropped with other short-duration crops to maximize land use and improve soil health.
(ii) Method of Harvesting
1. Maturity Check: Sugarcane is usually ready for harvest 12-18 months after planting, depending on the variety and growing conditions. Harvesting is timed to coincide with the peak sugar content in the cane.
2. Cutting: The canes are cut close to the ground using machetes or mechanical harvesters. Manual cutting is labor-intensive but allows for selective harvesting, while mechanical harvesters can cover large areas quickly.
3. Topping: The tops of the cane plants, which consist of leaves and immature cane, are removed. This helps reduce the volume of material that needs to be transported and processed.
4. Bundling and Transport: The cut canes are bundled and transported to the sugar mill for processing. In some areas, oxen carts, tractors, or trucks are used for transportation, depending on the infrastructure.
5. Post-Harvest Handling: Once at the mill, the sugarcane is processed promptly to minimize sugar loss. Delays in processing can lead to a decrease in the sugar content due to microbial activity.
(iii) Economic Importance
1. Employment: Sugarcane cultivation and processing create numerous jobs, from farm laborers to factory workers, contributing to local employment and income generation.
2. Revenue Generation: Sugarcane is a valuable cash crop. The sale of sugar and its by-products (like molasses and bagasse) generates substantial revenue for farmers and contributes to the national economy
3. Industrial Development: The sugarcane industry stimulates the development of related industries, including sugar mills, ethanol production plants, and paper manufacturing from bagasse, fostering industrial growth.
4. Foreign Exchange: Sugar and related products can be significant export commodities, earning foreign exchange for the country and improving the balance of trade.
5. Infrastructure Improvement: The establishment of large-scale sugarcane farms and processing plants often leads to infrastructure development, such as roads, electricity, and water supply systems, benefiting the broader community.
6. Energy Production: Bagasse, a by-product of sugarcane processing, can be used as a biofuel to generate electricity, contributing to the energy mix and promoting renewable energy sources.
7. Food Security: Sugar produced from sugarcane is a staple in the diet, and its availability supports food security. Additionally, the cultivation of sugarcane can sometimes be intercropped with food crops, enhancing overall food production.
Question 66 Report
(a) Draw a sketch map of Africa and on it show the following vegetation belts:
(i) Tropical rain-forest
(ii) Tropical grassland
(iii) Temperate grassland
(b) Describe any four characteristics of the Tropical rainforest of Africa
(c) In what four ways is the Tropical rain-forest of economic importance to Africa?