JAMB UTME - Agricultural Science - 2020
Question 1 Report
When a cockerel is castrated, it becomes a
Answer Details
When a male chicken, also known as a cockerel, is castrated, it becomes a capon. Castration is the process of removing the testicles, which results in the bird having a more tender and flavorful meat, as well as a calmer personality. Castrated male chickens are often raised for food, and are known for their plump and juicy meat.
Question 2 Report
The primary role of agriculture is the provision of
Answer Details
The primary role of agriculture is to provide food for people and their animals. This includes crops such as fruits, vegetables, grains, and livestock such as cattle, pigs, and chickens. Agriculture is a fundamental part of our food system, as it produces the majority of the food that we consume on a daily basis. Agriculture is also important for providing employment and income for farmers, as well as raw materials for industries such as food processing, textiles, and biofuels. Additionally, agriculture can also contribute to a country's foreign exchange earnings by exporting crops and livestock to other countries. However, despite these other important roles, the primary purpose of agriculture remains to provide a reliable and sustainable source of food for the growing global population.
Question 3 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 4 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 5 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 6 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 7 Report
The national tree-planting campaign is aimed at stimulating
Answer Details
The national tree-planting campaign is aimed at stimulating afforestation. Afforestation refers to the process of establishing a forest, or stand of trees, in an area where there was no forest. The goal of the national tree-planting campaign is to increase the number of trees in a specific area, either for conservation purposes, to provide timber, or for other benefits such as improving air quality and reducing soil erosion. Taungya farming involves the planting of trees in fields, where crops are also grown. This type of farming provides benefits to both the trees and the crops, as the trees provide shade and improve soil fertility, while the crops provide food and income. Forest reservation involves setting aside forests for conservation purposes, usually to protect wildlife and their habitats. While all of these practices can contribute to improving the health and sustainability of forests, the primary focus of a national tree-planting campaign is likely to be on afforestation.
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
Study the diagram above and answer question
The crop associated with the diagram above is?
Answer Details
Question 10 Report
Daily management routines in poultry include the following except
Answer Details
The option that does not belong in a typical daily management routine in poultry is "debeaking." Debeaking is a procedure that involves removing the tip of a bird's beak to prevent pecking and cannibalism in crowded conditions. It is not a daily routine but rather a management practice that may be performed once in the lifetime of a bird, typically when they are young. Egg collection, water and feed provision, and health care are all important daily routines in poultry management. Egg collection involves gathering the eggs that the hens have laid, water and feed provision involves making sure the birds have access to fresh water and food, and health care involves monitoring the birds for signs of illness and taking action to prevent or treat diseases.
Question 11 Report
Birds temporarily store their food in the
Answer Details
Birds temporarily store their food in the crop. The crop is a small pouch-like organ located near the bird's throat. It can stretch and expand to store food before it moves down to the rest of the digestive system. The food is softened and moistened in the crop, and then gradually passed on to the gizzard, which is a muscular part of the stomach where food is ground and broken down further. The gizzard is followed by the proventriculus and duodenum, where the food is further processed and digested.
Question 12 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 13 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 14 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 16 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 17 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 18 Report
Maize is a very important crop because apart from serving as a staple, it
Question 19 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 20 Report
From the curve above, at what point is it advisable for the farmer to stop further addition of input?
Answer Details
Question 21 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 22 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 24 Report
Which of the following factors usually affects the colour of egg yolk?
Answer Details
The main factor that affects the color of egg yolk is the type of feed that the laying hen eats. The yolk gets its color from pigments found in the foods that the hen consumes, such as yellow and orange pigments from corn, marigold petals, and other yellow and orange plants. If a hen eats a diet rich in yellow and orange pigments, the yolk will be a deeper yellow color. On the other hand, if a hen eats a diet that lacks these pigments, the yolk will be lighter in color. The other factors, such as the age of the hen and the type of housing, may also have some impact, but to a much lesser extent compared to the type of feed.
Question 26 Report
The recommended agricultural practice in farm settlement scheme is
Answer Details
The recommended agricultural practice in farm settlement schemes is mixed farming. Mixed farming involves the integration of both crop and livestock production on the same farm. This approach provides farmers with a more diverse and stable source of income, as they can earn money from both crops and animals. Additionally, mixed farming can help to improve soil fertility and reduce the risk of crop failure, as the manure produced by livestock can be used as a natural fertilizer for crops. This type of agricultural practice is considered to be more sustainable and resilient than relying solely on one type of production, such as cash crop production or poultry farming.
Question 27 Report
Which of the following sources of farm power is most flexible and adaptable to farm operations?
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Question 28 Report
Agricultural extension programme would succeed in disseminating new ideas to farmers except if the programme
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Question 30 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 32 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 33 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 34 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 35 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 37 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 38 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 39 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 40 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.
