JAMB UTME - Agricultural Science - 2020
Question 1 Report
The damage to the stem of maize plants resulting in hollowness and lodging is most likely caused by
Answer Details
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.
Question 2 Report
To which of the following crops does the term 'ginning' apply?
Answer Details
The term "ginning" applies to cotton crops. Ginning is the process of separating the cotton fibers from the seeds and other impurities. The seeds are removed and the fibers are cleaned, making it easier to spin and weave into fabric. Ginning is an important step in the processing of cotton, as it allows for the production of high-quality cotton fiber that is used in the manufacture of various textiles and other products. Kenaf, cocoa, and groundnut are not crops that are associated with ginning. Kenaf is a fiber crop that is used in the production of various products, including paper and textiles. Cocoa is a crop that is used to produce cocoa powder and chocolate. Groundnut is a crop that is grown for its edible seeds, which are used for food and oil.
Question 3 Report
In encouraging farmers to produce more of a particular crop, the Nigerian government has helped farmers in marketing that crop through the establishment of
Answer Details
The Nigerian government has helped farmers in marketing a particular crop by the establishment of marketing boards. Marketing boards are organizations set up by the government to regulate and control the marketing of specific agricultural products. They help to ensure that farmers receive fair prices for their crops, and also help to stabilize prices in the market. Marketing boards may also provide support to farmers in areas such as transportation, storage, and grading of crops. Rural schools of agriculture provide education and training to farmers, helping them to improve their farming practices and increase productivity. Rural extension offices provide information and advice to farmers on a range of topics, including best practices for growing crops and marketing their products. Markets for the sale of crops are important places where farmers can sell their products, but they do not provide the same level of support and regulation as marketing boards. By establishing marketing boards, the Nigerian government is helping to create a stable and fair marketplace for the sale of specific crops, providing farmers with a more secure and predictable income.
Question 4 Report
Government agricultural policies include the following except
Answer Details
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.
Question 5 Report
Leguminous cover crops do not
Answer Details
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.
Question 6 Report
Which of the following is not an advantage of drip-irrigation?
Answer Details
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.
Question 7 Report
Which of the following characteristics is not correct of pigs?
Answer Details
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.
Question 8 Report
Which of the following will be responsible for the poor yield of fertile soil in a high rainfall area?
Answer Details
The most likely cause of poor yield of fertile soil in a high rainfall area is leaching of soil nutrients. This is because high rainfall can wash away valuable nutrients and minerals from the soil, making it less fertile and less able to support plant growth. The nutrients are carried away by water, especially in areas with high rainfall, and deposited elsewhere, which makes the soil less rich in nutrients over time. This can be prevented by using proper soil conservation techniques like crop rotation, adding organic matter, and using appropriate fertilizer. Low pH value of land can also affect plant growth, as plants have a preferred range of soil pH for optimal growth. If the soil pH is too low, it can make certain nutrients unavailable to plants and result in poor growth. Lack of soil microbes can also impact plant growth, as these microbes play an important role in breaking down organic matter and releasing nutrients for plants to use. High alkalinity of soil can also affect plant growth, as some plants are sensitive to high levels of alkalinity and may struggle to absorb necessary nutrients.
Question 9 Report
The length of oestrus cycle (in days) in goat is
Answer Details
The length of the oestrus cycle in goats is typically 18 to 21 days. The oestrus cycle is the period in which a female goat is receptive to mating and can become pregnant. During this time, the goat will show signs of heat, such as increased activity, restlessness, and a swollen vulva. The length of the cycle can vary slightly between individual goats, but it is typically between 18 to 21 days.
Question 10 Report
During which of the following plant propagation methods is the tool represented used?
Answer Details
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.
Question 11 Report
Which of the following is not component of soil?
Answer Details
Texture is not a component of soil. Texture refers to the relative proportions of different sized soil particles such as sand, silt, and clay that make up the soil. These particles affect the physical properties of the soil, such as its structure, porosity, and water-holding capacity. The other three options, air, water, and organic matter, are all actual components of soil, as they are all present within the soil and play important roles in the soil's health and fertility.
Question 12 Report
An example of grain legume is
Answer Details
An example of a grain legume is pea. Grain legumes are plants that produce seeds that are used for food and feed. They are part of the legume family, which also includes beans, lentils, and peanuts. Peas are a type of grain legume that are small, round, and green in color. They are a good source of protein, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals. They can be eaten raw, cooked, or used as an ingredient in a variety of dishes.
Question 13 Report
The process of stopping a young animal from milk and placing it under hand feeding is
Answer Details
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.
Question 14 Report
Given a normal situation, what effect will an increase in the supply of cowpea have on its market price? The price
Answer Details
An increase in the supply of cowpea will generally lead to a decrease in its market price. This is because, with more cowpea available, there is greater competition among sellers to find buyers for their product, which puts downward pressure on the price. Think of it like this: if there are many people trying to sell the same product, each person will have to lower their price to attract buyers and make a sale. The same is true for cowpea. In a normal market situation, the law of supply and demand states that when the supply of a product increases, the price of the product will decrease, assuming everything else remains constant. This is because the increased supply creates an excess of the product, making it more readily available and easier for consumers to find. With more supply and no change in demand, the price drops to encourage people to buy more.
Question 15 Report
What is the main use of a gunter's chain?
Answer Details
A Gunter's chain is mainly used for taking measurements of distances. It is a survey tool consisting of a chain of 100 links, each link measuring 7.92 inches in length. This makes the total length of the chain 66 feet, or 22 yards. Surveyors use the Gunter's chain to measure distances and to calculate the size of an area by counting the number of chains that fit into the space. By using this tool, surveyors can accurately determine the dimensions of land, buildings, and other structures.
Question 16 Report
The most appropriate farm machinery for breaking soil is the
Answer Details
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.
Question 17 Report
Smut disease of cereals is caused by a
Answer Details
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.
Question 18 Report
The windmill is normally used as a source of power in
Answer Details
The windmill is normally used as a source of power in pumping well water. A windmill harnesses the power of the wind to turn its blades and generate energy. This energy is then used to power a pump that brings water from a well to the surface, where it can be used for irrigation, livestock watering, or other purposes. By using a windmill, farmers and rural communities can have access to a sustainable source of water without relying on electricity from the grid.
Question 19 Report
The diagram above shows parts of a plough.
Study it and answer this question.
The part labelled I in the diagram is the
Answer Details
Question 20 Report
The most efficient irrigation method on large scale farms involve the use of
Answer Details
The most efficient irrigation method for large scale farms is the use of overhead irrigation facilities, also known as center pivot or lateral move systems. This method involves a large tower in the center of the field that rotates, with long pipes extending from the tower and sprinklers attached to the pipes. The sprinklers water the crops evenly, without the water being absorbed too quickly into the ground, ensuring that the crops receive enough water to grow properly. This method is efficient because it can cover a large area, uses less water compared to flood irrigation and is easy to manage.
Question 21 Report
The quantity of rice that a consumer is willing and able to buy during a given period is simply the consumer's
Answer Details
The quantity of rice that a consumer is willing and able to buy during a given period is the consumer's demand for rice. Demand for rice refers to the amount of rice that a consumer is willing and able to buy at a specific price. When the price of rice goes up, demand for rice may go down, and vice versa. This relationship between price and demand is a key concept in economics and helps to determine the market price for a good or service.
Question 23 Report
Which of the following is not a sign of heat in farm animals?
Answer Details
Udder enlargement is not a sign of heat in farm animals. Udder enlargement is a sign of pregnancy or lactation in farm animals and is not related to heat. The other three options, loss of appetite, restlessness, and grunting, are common signs of heat or estrus in farm animals. During estrus, the female animal is receptive to mating and these signs can indicate to farmers that the animal is ready to breed.
Question 24 Report
Which of the following activities is correct about agricultural extension agent?
Answer Details
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.
Question 26 Report
Agricultural uses of land include
Answer Details
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.
Question 27 Report
In subsistence agriculture,
Answer Details
Subsistence agriculture is a type of farming where the primary goal is to produce enough food to feed the farmer's family and sometimes a small community. The focus is on meeting the basic needs of the farmers rather than making a profit. In subsistence agriculture, yields are often not as high as in commercial agriculture because the farmers use simple tools and techniques and may not have access to modern inputs like fertilizers and pesticides. The surplus produced is small because the primary aim is to feed the family, so only a small amount is left over for sale or trade. Savings are not a priority in subsistence agriculture, as the focus is on producing enough food to meet the family's needs. The farm sizes are usually small, as the farmer only needs to cultivate enough land to feed their family. Overall, subsistence agriculture is a way of life for many farmers in developing countries, and it provides a basic level of food security for the farmers and their families.
Question 28 Report
Capital in agriculture includes the following item except
Answer Details
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.
Question 29 Report
Which of the following is an example of igneous rock?
Answer Details
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.
Question 30 Report
Crop rotation has the following effects on the soil except
Answer Details
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.
Question 31 Report
Which of the following is not the role of government in agricultural production?
Answer Details
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.
Question 32 Report
Which of the following is not a sign of animal approaching parturition?
Answer Details
The option "drop in milk production" is not a sign of animal approaching parturition. Parturition refers to the process of giving birth in animals, and there are several physical signs that indicate that an animal is approaching this stage. A soft, pliable and swollen vulva, a relaxed cervix, and a full mammary gland are all common signs that an animal is getting ready to give birth. However, a drop in milk production is not a sign of this, as milk production typically increases as an animal approaches parturition.
Question 33 Report
The soil nutrient which is important as a constituent of plant proteins and hormones is
Answer Details
Sulphur is important as a constituent of plant proteins and hormones. Sulphur is a crucial element for plants, playing a role in many of the plant's key processes, such as growth and the creation of proteins and hormones. Proteins are the building blocks of all living things, and hormones control important functions like flowering and fruiting. Without sufficient sulphur, plants can become stunted and their growth and development can be slowed down. Additionally, some crops like brassicas (e.g. broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage) are particularly sensitive to sulphur deficiency and may show visible signs of yellowing or stunted growth.
Question 35 Report
Study the diagram above and answer question
The farm tool associated with the diagram above is
Answer Details
Question 36 Report
The scientific name for guinea grass is
Answer Details
The scientific name for guinea grass is Panicum maximum. Scientific names, also known as Latin names, are used to provide a standardized and universally recognized name for a species of plant or animal. The scientific name for guinea grass is Panicum maximum, and this name is used by scientists and researchers all over the world to refer to this species of grass. This helps to avoid confusion and ensure that everyone is talking about the same species, even if it has different common names in different regions.
Question 37 Report
Investments with long life span in agricultural economics are otherwise known as
Answer Details
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.
Question 38 Report
During the processes of soil formation, the cracks or crevices that are first noticed on the rocks are normally caused by
Answer Details
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.
Question 39 Report
Answer Details
The main purpose of including leguminous crops, such as beans and peas, in pastures is to serve as a source of proteins for livestock. These crops are high in protein and provide an important source of nutrition for animals, helping to keep them healthy and productive. Additionally, leguminous crops help to improve the quality of the soil by fixing nitrogen, which makes it more fertile and better able to support other plants.
Question 40 Report
Artificial scarcity of agricultural produce is often caused by the following marketing agents except
Answer Details
