JAMB UTME - Agricultural Science - 2020

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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.

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The characteristic that is not correct for pigs is "source of land". Pigs are not a source of land, they are a source of meat. Pigs are known for being efficient feed converters, meaning they can convert feed into meat efficiently, and they are also prolific animals, meaning they can produce a lot of offspring. In simple terms, pigs are raised for their meat, and are valued for their ability to convert food into meat quickly and efficiently, but they are not a source of land.

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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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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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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.

Maelezo ya Majibu

Maelezo ya Majibu

All of the options listed can contribute to disease in a fish pond, but poor management practices are particularly significant. Poor management practices can include things like overstocking the pond, failing to maintain proper water quality, not properly cleaning and disinfecting equipment, and not providing adequate nutrition to the fish. These practices can create an environment that is favorable for the growth and spread of disease-causing pathogens, leading to outbreaks of disease in the pond. Mixed stocking refers to the practice of stocking a pond with different species of fish. This can increase the risk of disease by introducing new pathogens or by creating stress in the fish that weakens their immune systems. Liming is the practice of adding lime to a fish pond to adjust the pH of the water. While liming is important for maintaining the health of the fish, it can also increase the risk of disease if not done properly. Harvesting refers to the removal of fish from a pond. While harvesting itself is not a direct cause of disease, it can disrupt the balance of the pond and increase the risk of disease if not done properly. For example, if fish are harvested too frequently or if diseased fish are not properly disposed of, it can create an environment that is favorable for the growth and spread of disease-causing pathogens.

Maelezo ya Majibu

Maelezo ya Majibu

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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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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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 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.

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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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The best control measure for rinderpest disease in cattle is vaccination. Rinderpest is a highly contagious viral disease that affects cattle and other species of cloven-hoofed animals. It is spread through direct contact between animals or through contaminated feed, water, or equipment. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent the spread of the disease and protect cattle from getting sick. By vaccinating cattle, they will develop immunity to the virus and will not get sick if they are exposed to it. This helps to break the chain of transmission and reduce the spread of the disease to other animals. Sanitation, such as cleaning and disinfecting pens and equipment, can help to reduce the risk of spreading the virus, but it does not provide immunity to the cattle. The use of antibiotics may help to treat secondary infections, but they do not cure rinderpest itself, which is a viral disease. The eradication of infected stock may help to control the spread of the disease in the short term, but it is not a sustainable solution on its own, as new cases of infection can occur. In conclusion, the best control measure for rinderpest in cattle is vaccination, which provides immunity to the cattle and helps to prevent the spread of the disease.

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Birds temporarily store their food in the crop. The crop is a small pouch-like organ located near the bird's throat. It can stretch and expand to store food before it moves down to the rest of the digestive system. The food is softened and moistened in the crop, and then gradually passed on to the gizzard, which is a muscular part of the stomach where food is ground and broken down further. The gizzard is followed by the proventriculus and duodenum, where the food is further processed and digested.

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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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Maelezo ya Majibu

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.

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Maelezo ya Majibu

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.

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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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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 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 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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Maelezo ya Majibu

Andropogon gayanus is commonly called "gamba grass." Gamba grass is a species of grass that is native to Africa and is known for its tall, dense growth. It grows well in hot, wet conditions and is commonly used for forage for livestock, as well as for erosion control and as a fuel source. The name "gamba" comes from the Bantu language and refers to the tall stature of the grass.

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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 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.

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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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Maelezo ya Majibu

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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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.

Maelezo ya Majibu

Maelezo ya Majibu

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.

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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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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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When a male chicken, also known as a cockerel, is castrated, it becomes a capon. Castration is the process of removing the testicles, which results in the bird having a more tender and flavorful meat, as well as a calmer personality. Castrated male chickens are often raised for food, and are known for their plump and juicy meat.

Maelezo ya Majibu

Maelezo ya Majibu

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 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.