JAMB UTME - Agricultural Science - 2020

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Agricultural uses of land include growing crops, raising livestock, and forestry. Crops can be grown for food, feed, fiber, or fuel, and the type of crops grown depends on the climate, soil, and local market demand. Livestock can include cattle, pigs, chickens, and other animals that are raised for food, dairy products, or as draft animals. Forestry involves the cultivation and management of forested land for timber and other forest products. Silviculture, or the cultivation of forested land, is a specific type of forestry. Mining involves the extraction of minerals and other resources from the earth and is not typically considered an agricultural use of land. Housing and transportation are not typically considered agricultural uses of land, as they involve the construction of buildings and infrastructure for human habitation and mobility, respectively.

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Capital in agriculture refers to the resources and assets used to produce crops and livestock. It includes items such as machinery, buildings, and land. The option that does not belong in this list is "labour". While labour is an important input in agriculture, it is not considered a capital asset. Capital assets are long-term investments that are used to produce goods over time, while labour is a more immediate input that is used to carry out specific tasks. So, labour is considered an operational cost or an expense, rather than a capital asset, in agriculture. To produce crops and livestock, farmers need both capital assets and labour inputs, but labour is not considered a part of the farmer's capital.

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The option that does not belong in a typical daily management routine in poultry is "debeaking." Debeaking is a procedure that involves removing the tip of a bird's beak to prevent pecking and cannibalism in crowded conditions. It is not a daily routine but rather a management practice that may be performed once in the lifetime of a bird, typically when they are young. Egg collection, water and feed provision, and health care are all important daily routines in poultry management. Egg collection involves gathering the eggs that the hens have laid, water and feed provision involves making sure the birds have access to fresh water and food, and health care involves monitoring the birds for signs of illness and taking action to prevent or treat diseases.

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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.

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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.

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The length of the oestrus cycle in goats is typically 18 to 21 days. The oestrus cycle is the period in which a female goat is receptive to mating and can become pregnant. During this time, the goat will show signs of heat, such as increased activity, restlessness, and a swollen vulva. The length of the cycle can vary slightly between individual goats, but it is typically between 18 to 21 days.

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A soil with a pH range of 6.1 to 6.9 is considered slightly acidic. pH is a measure of the acidity or alkalinity of a soil, with a pH of 7 being neutral. Soils with a pH less than 7 are considered acidic, while those with a pH greater than 7 are considered alkaline. A soil with a pH range of 6.1 to 6.9 is slightly acidic because it falls within the range of slightly acidic soils (pH 6.0-7.0). It's important to note that different plants have different pH requirements, so knowing the pH of your soil can help you determine which plants will grow best in your soil.

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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.

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The option that is not a typical objective of government agricultural policies is "increasing the number of peasant farmers." While some governments may aim to support small-scale farmers and promote rural development, it is not a direct objective of agricultural policies to simply increase the number of farmers. The other options listed, such as increasing food production, improving efficiency in export crop production, and supplying raw materials for local industries, are more commonly aimed for in agricultural policies as these goals directly impact food security, economic growth, and industrial development.

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The scientific name for guinea grass is Panicum maximum. Scientific names, also known as Latin names, are used to provide a standardized and universally recognized name for a species of plant or animal. The scientific name for guinea grass is Panicum maximum, and this name is used by scientists and researchers all over the world to refer to this species of grass. This helps to avoid confusion and ensure that everyone is talking about the same species, even if it has different common names in different regions.

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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.

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The tool shown is typically used in the plant propagation method of budding. Budding involves taking a bud from one plant and inserting it into a different plant to create a new plant that is a genetic clone of the original plant. This is usually done using a budding knife, which is a sharp, curved blade that is used to make a clean cut in both the parent plant and the rootstock plant. The bud is then inserted into a small incision in the rootstock plant and the wound is covered with tape or a rubber band to hold it in place. After a few weeks, the bud will have rooted into the rootstock and the new plant will be ready to be separated and grown on its own. Seed planting, seedling transplanting, and layering are all other methods of plant propagation, but they do not involve the use of the tool shown in the question.

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The most common soil mineral found in all crystalline rocks and a main constituent of granite and sandstone is quartz. Quartz is a mineral made up of silicon and oxygen and is one of the most abundant minerals on the Earth's surface. It is often found in granite and sandstone, which are types of rocks made up of various minerals including quartz. Quartz is also found in many other types of rocks and soils, and is an important component of the Earth's crust.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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The role of government in agricultural production that is not typically included is the provision of labor. Governments typically play a role in supporting the agriculture sector by providing loans and credits, building storage facilities, and establishing efficient marketing outlets. However, the direct provision of labor is not usually considered a role of government in agriculture. Instead, it is usually the responsibility of individual farmers or agricultural businesses to hire and manage their own labor force.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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The primary role of agriculture is to provide food for people and their animals. This includes crops such as fruits, vegetables, grains, and livestock such as cattle, pigs, and chickens. Agriculture is a fundamental part of our food system, as it produces the majority of the food that we consume on a daily basis. Agriculture is also important for providing employment and income for farmers, as well as raw materials for industries such as food processing, textiles, and biofuels. Additionally, agriculture can also contribute to a country's foreign exchange earnings by exporting crops and livestock to other countries. However, despite these other important roles, the primary purpose of agriculture remains to provide a reliable and sustainable source of food for the growing global population.

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Consumer sovereignty in agriculture refers to the idea that the consumer, not the farmer, determines what should be produced in the agricultural sector. This means that farmers produce what consumers want to buy, rather than what they think is best to grow. Essentially, the demand of the consumers drives the supply of agricultural products. For example, if consumers demand organic produce, farmers will shift their production towards organic crops to meet that demand. In this way, consumer sovereignty ensures that the needs and preferences of the consumers are being met. However, it's important to note that the concept of consumer sovereignty can sometimes be limited by various factors such as government policies, production costs, and environmental constraints.

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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.

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Leguminous cover crops do not reduce the soil microbial population. In fact, they do the opposite - they aid in increasing the soil microbial population. This is because leguminous cover crops have the ability to fix nitrogen from the air and add it to the soil, providing a source of nutrition for soil microorganisms. Additionally, their roots and leaves also add organic matter to the soil as they decompose, which further supports the growth of soil microorganisms. So, leguminous cover crops are beneficial for soil health and fertility, not detrimental.

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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.

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The process of stopping a young animal from drinking milk from its mother and feeding it by hand is called weaning. Weaning is the process of gradually introducing solid food and reducing the amount of milk or formula that the young animal receives. This is an important step in the development of the young animal as it helps them transition from a milk-based diet to a more solid and varied diet. The goal of weaning is to promote healthy growth and development, and to prepare the young animal for a self-sufficient life.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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A soil with a pH of 2 can be described as highly acidic. The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14, with 7 being neutral. A soil pH below 7 is considered acidic and a soil pH above 7 is considered alkaline. The lower the pH number, the more acidic the soil is. So, a soil with a pH of 2 is significantly more acidic than a neutral soil (pH 7) and can be described as highly acidic.

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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.

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Smut disease of cereals is caused by a fungus. A fungus is a type of microorganism that can cause diseases in plants. The fungus infects the cereal plant and causes it to produce abnormal growths, called galls, in place of kernels. These galls eventually burst open and release spores of the fungus that can infect other plants. This can result in significant yield loss and reduced quality of the cereal crop.

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The marketing process does not include "production." Production refers to the creation of goods and services, while marketing is concerned with the promotion and sale of those goods and services. Marketing includes activities such as market research, product development, pricing, advertising, sales, and distribution. While production and marketing are closely related, they are distinct processes with different objectives and responsibilities. In the business world, production is often the responsibility of operations or manufacturing departments, while marketing is handled by a separate marketing department.

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