JAMB UTME - Agricultural Science - 2020
Question 1 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 2 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 3 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 4 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 6 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 7 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 8 Report
The act of giving birth in farm animals is called
Answer Details
The act of giving birth in farm animals is called "parturition." Parturition refers to the process of giving birth, from the onset of labor to the delivery of the offspring. It is a natural process that occurs in mammals, including farm animals such as cows, pigs, sheep, and horses. During parturition, the mother's uterus contracts to push the baby out, and the baby is then born.
Question 9 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 10 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 11 Report
Animal which chew the cud are
Answer Details
The group of animals that chew the cud are "ruminants." Ruminants are a group of mammals that include animals such as cattle, sheep, goats, buffalo, and deer. These animals have a unique digestive system that allows them to break down tough plant material, such as grasses and leaves, by regurgitating and re-chewing their food (known as cud). This process helps to release more nutrients from the plant material, which can then be absorbed by the animal's digestive system. Amphibians, aves (birds), and reptiles do not chew the cud and have different digestive systems.
Question 12 Report
Cassava is mainly propagated by
Answer Details
Cassava is mainly propagated by cuttings. Cassava is a tropical root crop that is widely grown for its edible starchy roots. To grow cassava, farmers usually take cuttings from mature plants and plant them directly into the ground. These cuttings will then sprout roots and grow into new plants. This method of propagation is relatively simple and efficient, and it ensures that the new plants will have the same characteristics as the parent plant. Other methods of plant propagation, such as layering, budding, and growing from seedlings, can also be used, but cuttings are the most commonly used method for propagating cassava.
Question 13 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 14 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 15 Report
Which of the following groups of crops requires a nursery?
Answer Details
All of the groups of crops listed can be grown from seedlings in a nursery, but the specific crops grown in a nursery depend on the farmer's goals and resources. A nursery is a place where young plants are grown until they are big enough to be transplanted into the field. This allows farmers to control the growing conditions, such as temperature, moisture, and light, and to protect the young plants from disease and pests. Crop selection for a nursery will often depend on factors such as the climate, soil type, and market demand for the crops. For example, tomato, cotton, and sorghum are often grown in nurseries in regions with hot and dry climates, while crops such as rice, maize, and cocoa are more commonly grown in nurseries in regions with a tropical or subtropical climate. In conclusion, all of the groups of crops listed can be grown in a nursery, but the specific crops grown in a nursery will depend on various factors such as the climate, soil type, and market demand.
Question 16 Report
A soil with the PH range of 6.1 to 6.9 can be described as
Answer Details
A soil with a pH range of 6.1 to 6.9 is considered slightly acidic. pH is a measure of the acidity or alkalinity of a soil, with a pH of 7 being neutral. Soils with a pH less than 7 are considered acidic, while those with a pH greater than 7 are considered alkaline. A soil with a pH range of 6.1 to 6.9 is slightly acidic because it falls within the range of slightly acidic soils (pH 6.0-7.0). It's important to note that different plants have different pH requirements, so knowing the pH of your soil can help you determine which plants will grow best in your soil.
Question 17 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 18 Report
Management practices in a piggery include the following except
Answer Details
The management practice in a piggery that is not included is weekly vaccination of pigs. Disinfecting pens helps prevent the spread of disease by killing germs and bacteria. Regular cleaning of feed and water troughs ensures that the pigs have access to clean food and water, promoting their health and well-being. Isolating sick animals helps prevent the spread of disease to healthy pigs, and is an important part of disease control in a piggery. However, weekly vaccination of pigs is not a standard practice in a piggery. Pig vaccination schedules vary depending on the specific disease being targeted, the age and health of the pigs, and other factors. Typically, pig vaccination is done on a regular basis, but not necessarily every week. It is important to consult with a veterinarian to develop an appropriate vaccination schedule for your pigs.
Question 19 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 20 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 21 Report
Study the diagram above and answer question
The crop associated with the diagram above is?
Answer Details
Question 22 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 25 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 28 Report
Spermatozoa are produced in the
Answer Details
Spermatozoa are produced in the testicles. The testicles are part of the male reproductive system and are responsible for producing and storing sperm. Sperm are the male reproductive cells that are necessary for fertilization, which is the process by which sperm combine with an egg to form an embryo. The testicles are located outside the body in a sac called the scrotum. This location helps to maintain a temperature that is cooler than the body, which is necessary for optimal sperm production. The production of sperm is a continuous process that starts during puberty and continues throughout a man's life.
Question 29 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 30 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 32 Report
Under normal circumstances, the concept of consumer sovereignty in agriculture implies that
Answer Details
Consumer sovereignty in agriculture refers to the idea that the consumer, not the farmer, determines what should be produced in the agricultural sector. This means that farmers produce what consumers want to buy, rather than what they think is best to grow. Essentially, the demand of the consumers drives the supply of agricultural products. For example, if consumers demand organic produce, farmers will shift their production towards organic crops to meet that demand. In this way, consumer sovereignty ensures that the needs and preferences of the consumers are being met. However, it's important to note that the concept of consumer sovereignty can sometimes be limited by various factors such as government policies, production costs, and environmental constraints.
Question 33 Report
The best control ensure for rinderpest disease in cattle is
Answer Details
The best control measure for rinderpest disease in cattle is vaccination. Rinderpest is a highly contagious viral disease that affects cattle and other species of cloven-hoofed animals. It is spread through direct contact between animals or through contaminated feed, water, or equipment. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent the spread of the disease and protect cattle from getting sick. By vaccinating cattle, they will develop immunity to the virus and will not get sick if they are exposed to it. This helps to break the chain of transmission and reduce the spread of the disease to other animals. Sanitation, such as cleaning and disinfecting pens and equipment, can help to reduce the risk of spreading the virus, but it does not provide immunity to the cattle. The use of antibiotics may help to treat secondary infections, but they do not cure rinderpest itself, which is a viral disease. The eradication of infected stock may help to control the spread of the disease in the short term, but it is not a sustainable solution on its own, as new cases of infection can occur. In conclusion, the best control measure for rinderpest in cattle is vaccination, which provides immunity to the cattle and helps to prevent the spread of the disease.
Question 34 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 35 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 37 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 38 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 39 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 40 Report
Which of the following sources of farm power is most flexible and adaptable to farm operations?
Answer Details
