JAMB UTME - Agricultural Science - 2020
Question 1 Report
The mating of a white fulani bull and an N'dama cow could be termed?
Answer Details
The mating of a white fulani bull and an N'dama cow is called cross breeding. Cross breeding is the mating of two animals from different breeds, or sometimes even different species, with the aim of creating offspring with desirable traits from both parents. In this case, the white fulani bull and N'dama cow are two different breeds, therefore their mating would be considered cross breeding.
Question 3 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 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
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 7 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 8 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 9 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 10 Report
Agricultural extension programme would succeed in disseminating new ideas to farmers except if the programme
Answer Details
Question 12 Report
Improvement of yam through breeding is difficult because
Answer Details
Improving yam through breeding is difficult because yam is a type of plant that reproduces vegetatively, meaning that it does not have a sexual reproductive system. This means that new plants are produced from the stem, roots or leaves rather than from seeds. As a result, breeding is not as straightforward as it is with plants that produce seeds. Additionally, yam varieties can rapidly multiply, making it difficult to control their growth and ensure that only the desired varieties are being propagated. Furthermore, the genes in yam plants do not segregate in a predictable manner, making it difficult to produce plants with specific traits through breeding.
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
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 15 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 16 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 17 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 18 Report
Which of the following may cause disease in a fish pond?
Answer Details
All of the options listed can contribute to disease in a fish pond, but poor management practices are particularly significant. Poor management practices can include things like overstocking the pond, failing to maintain proper water quality, not properly cleaning and disinfecting equipment, and not providing adequate nutrition to the fish. These practices can create an environment that is favorable for the growth and spread of disease-causing pathogens, leading to outbreaks of disease in the pond. Mixed stocking refers to the practice of stocking a pond with different species of fish. This can increase the risk of disease by introducing new pathogens or by creating stress in the fish that weakens their immune systems. Liming is the practice of adding lime to a fish pond to adjust the pH of the water. While liming is important for maintaining the health of the fish, it can also increase the risk of disease if not done properly. Harvesting refers to the removal of fish from a pond. While harvesting itself is not a direct cause of disease, it can disrupt the balance of the pond and increase the risk of disease if not done properly. For example, if fish are harvested too frequently or if diseased fish are not properly disposed of, it can create an environment that is favorable for the growth and spread of disease-causing pathogens.
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
Maize is a very important crop because apart from serving as a staple, it
Question 21 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 22 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 23 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 24 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 25 Report
Marketing processes do not include
Answer Details
The marketing process does not include "production." Production refers to the creation of goods and services, while marketing is concerned with the promotion and sale of those goods and services. Marketing includes activities such as market research, product development, pricing, advertising, sales, and distribution. While production and marketing are closely related, they are distinct processes with different objectives and responsibilities. In the business world, production is often the responsibility of operations or manufacturing departments, while marketing is handled by a separate marketing department.
Question 26 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 27 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 31 Report
Study the diagram above and answer question
The crop associated with the diagram above is?
Answer Details
Question 32 Report
Farm surveying can be defined as the
Answer Details
Farm surveying can be defined as the process of making measurements on land from which maps are drawn. This involves taking measurements of the land's boundaries, elevations, and other physical features, and then using this information to create detailed maps that show the layout of the land and its features. The goal of farm surveying is to provide accurate and up-to-date information about a farm's land and structures, which can be used for various purposes, such as planning and development, assessing the land's value, or determining the best use for the land.
Question 33 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 34 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 35 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 36 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 37 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 38 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 39 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 40 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.
