Neco 2023 Agricultural Science Question 2

A soil core (100 cm³) was taken from a field intended for maize production. The following gravimetric measurements were recorded: - Saturated weight (after soaking) = 210 g - Weight after draining for 2 h (field capacity) = 190 g - Weight at permanent wilting point = 165 g - Oven‑dry weight = 150 g - Bulk density of the soil = 1.3 g cm⁻³ Using these data, answer the questions below: (a) Determine the gravimetric water content at field capacity (\(\theta_{g,FC}\)) and at wilting point (\(\theta_{g,WP}\)). (b) Convert the gravimetric water contents to volumetric water contents (\(\theta_{v}\)) using the bulk density. (c) Calculate the plant‑available water holding capacity (PAWHC) in mm for a 30 cm root zone. (d) State whether the soil is suitable for maize, which requires a minimum PAWHC of 40 mm, and justify your answer.