Agriculture and Environment Soil Science & Land Management 2

Question 1

What is cation exchange capacity (CEC) a measure of in soil science?

Accepted Answer

The soil's ability to hold and supply nutrients to plants

Answer

CEC measures the soil's capacity to hold positively charged nutrient ions (cations) like calcium, magnesium, and potassium for plant uptake.

Question 2

Which US federal program provides financial incentives to farmers for implementing conservation practices on their land?

Accepted Answer

Conservation Reserve Program (CRP)

Answer

The Conservation Reserve Program pays farmers to retire highly erodible or environmentally sensitive cropland from production for conservation purposes.

Question 3

What soil property is most directly improved by adding lime to agricultural fields?

Accepted Answer

Soil pH

Answer

Agricultural lime (calcium carbonate) raises soil pH by neutralizing acidity, making nutrients more available to crops.

Question 4

Which erosion control practice involves planting crops along the natural contour lines of a slope?

Accepted Answer

Contour farming

Answer

Contour farming involves plowing and planting across the slope following contour lines, which slows water runoff and reduces erosion.

Question 5

What is soil compaction and why is it problematic for crops?

Accepted Answer

Increased soil density that restricts root growth and water infiltration

Answer

Soil compaction increases bulk density, restricting root penetration, reducing pore space, and limiting water and air movement through the soil profile.

Agriculture and Environment Practice Test

Agriculture and Environment Practice Test

Agriculture and Environment Soil Science & Land Management 2