Gce Model Questions Vol1 2018 Geography Question 9

Practice essay / theory question 9 from the 2018 Gce Model Questions Vol1 Geography examination. This question covers Soils, Soil fertility, Soil physical properties, Soil chemical properties, Soil management .

Gce Model Questions Vol1 2018 Geography Essay / Theory
Topics: Soils Soil fertility Soil physical properties Soil chemical properties Soil management
Question 9 GCE_MODEL_QUESTIONS_VOL1 • 2018 • GEOGRAPHY • essay

A farmer in northern Nigeria cultivates a 5‑hectare field that lies on a gently sloping sandy‑loam soil. Recent soil tests give the following data: - pH = 5.2 - Organic matter = 1.2 % - Bulk density = 1.45 g cm⁻³ - Available nitrogen = 0.08 % - Available phosphorus = 0.02 % - Available potassium = 0.15 % The area receives an average annual rainfall of 1200 mm and an evapotranspiration of 800 mm. The low‑lying portion of the field experiences seasonal water‑logging, while the upper part shows signs of surface erosion. Using this information, answer the following:

Question Parts

( a )
Identify the major physical and chemical constraints to crop production on this field.
( b )
Explain how each of the constraints identified in (a) influences crop productivity.
( c )
Propose an integrated soil‑management plan that addresses the constraints listed in (a). Include at least three specific measures and justify each.
( d )
Assuming the following response factors for the measures in (c): - Raising pH to 6.5 adds an 8 % yield increase. - Increasing organic matter by 0.5 % raises yield by 5 %. - Reducing bulk density to 1.30 g cm⁻³ adds a 4 % yield increase. - Correcting N, P and K deficiencies adds a further 6 % increase. - Improving drainage and controlling erosion together contribute an additional 2 % increase. Calculate the overall percentage yield increase the farmer can expect if all measures are fully implemented.

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About This Question

This is Gce Model Questions Vol1 2018 Geography Question 9. It is one of the essay questions from the 2018 Gce Model Questions Vol1 Geography examination.

The question covers Soils, Soil fertility, Soil physical properties, Soil chemical properties, Soil management .

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