Agronomy Basic 3

Question 1

What is the pH range generally considered optimal for most field crops?

Accepted Answer

5.5–7.0

Answer

Most field crops grow best in slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH between 5.5 and 7.0, where nutrient availability is highest.

Question 2

Which tillage practice involves turning over the top layer of soil to bury crop residues and expose fresh soil?

Accepted Answer

Moldboard plowing

Answer

Moldboard plowing inverts the soil, burying surface residues and weeds while bringing subsoil minerals to the surface.

Question 3

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

Accepted Answer

The soil's ability to retain positively charged nutrient ions

Answer

CEC measures the soil's capacity to hold and exchange positively charged ions (cations) such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium.

Question 4

Which of the following best describes 'vernalization' in crop plants?

Accepted Answer

Exposure to cold temperatures required to trigger flowering

Answer

Vernalization is the induction of flowering by exposure to prolonged cold, a requirement for many winter cereals like winter wheat.

Question 5

What is the primary role of nitrogen in plant growth?

Accepted Answer

Building proteins and chlorophyll

Answer

Nitrogen is a key component of amino acids, proteins, and chlorophyll, making it essential for vegetative growth and photosynthesis.

Agronomy Practice Test