WAEC SSCE - Agricultural Science - 2004
Question 1 Report
The most unreliable source of farm power is
Answer Details
The most unreliable source of farm power is wind. This is because wind power depends on the strength and consistency of the wind. If the wind is too weak or too strong, it can't generate enough power. Also, the availability of wind energy is not constant and it can vary from one season to another. In addition, wind turbines are prone to mechanical breakdowns, which can result in extended periods of downtime. As a result, wind power is not always a dependable source of energy for farmers, especially during critical times when power is urgently needed.
Question 2 Report
The most important soil micro-organism causing decay and nutrient recycling are
Answer Details
Bacteria and fungi are the most important soil micro-organisms that cause decay and nutrient recycling. Bacteria are the most numerous micro-organisms in the soil and are responsible for the decomposition of organic matter into simple compounds. Fungi, on the other hand, are important in the breakdown of complex organic matter such as lignin and cellulose. Together, these micro-organisms are responsible for breaking down dead plant and animal matter, releasing nutrients back into the soil that can be used by other plants. This process is essential for maintaining healthy soil and sustaining plant growth.
Question 3 Report
Which of the following land tenure systems encourages the establishment of permanent crops?
Answer Details
The land tenure system that encourages the establishment of permanent crops is the "freehold system." In this system, the individual or entity has the absolute ownership of the land and can use it as they wish, including planting permanent crops. They can also transfer the ownership of the land to another party, who will continue to have the same rights. Therefore, under the freehold system, farmers are more likely to invest in long-term crops such as fruit trees, which require a longer time to yield returns.
Question 4 Report
Which of the following is the main reason foe not keeping birds meant for commercial egg production under the extensive system of management? Birds
Answer Details
The main reason for not keeping birds meant for commercial egg production under the extensive system of management is that birds waste a lot of productive energy roaming about. When birds are kept under the extensive system of management, they are allowed to roam around freely in search of food and water. This requires a lot of energy and time, which could have been used for egg production. As a result, birds under this system tend to lay fewer eggs than birds kept under the intensive system of management, where food and water are provided in a concentrated area. Therefore, the extensive system is not suitable for commercial egg production as it is not efficient in terms of egg production.
Question 5 Report
Black pod disease of cocoa is controlled by
Answer Details
Black pod disease of cocoa is controlled by the application of fungicide. This is because black pod disease is caused by a fungus that attacks the pods of cocoa trees, resulting in loss of yield and quality of the crop. The application of fungicide helps to prevent or reduce the spread of the disease by killing or inhibiting the growth of the fungus. Other methods like farm sanitation and fumigation of soil may also help to control the disease indirectly by reducing the spread of spores and creating a healthier growing environment, but they are not direct methods of controlling the disease like the application of fungicide.
Question 6 Report
The act of parturition in ewe is known as
Answer Details
The act of parturition in ewe is known as lambing. This is the process of giving birth to lambs in sheep. It involves the expulsion of the fetus and the placenta from the uterus of the ewe. Lambing usually occurs between the months of December and May, and the gestation period of ewes is about 145 to 155 days. During lambing, the ewe requires special care and attention to ensure the safe delivery of the lamb and the health of both the ewe and the newborn lamb.
Question 7 Report
Newcastle disease is caused by
Answer Details
Newcastle disease is caused by a virus. The Newcastle virus is highly contagious and affects birds, particularly domestic poultry such as chickens and turkeys. The virus is spread through contact with infected birds or their secretions, or through contact with contaminated feed, water, equipment or clothing. The disease can cause respiratory, digestive and nervous system symptoms in birds, and can be fatal. Vaccination is an effective way to prevent Newcastle disease in poultry.
Question 8 Report
Which of the following statements is not true of agricultural production?
Answer Details
Question 9 Report
The method of fish preservation in which most of the moisture is lost is
Answer Details
The method of fish preservation in which most of the moisture is lost is drying. Drying fish involves removing most of the moisture from the fish through exposure to the sun, smoke, or air. The reduction of moisture content in the fish prevents the growth of microorganisms that cause spoilage. The dried fish can be stored for long periods without refrigeration and can be rehydrated by soaking in water before cooking. This method of preservation is commonly used in areas where refrigeration is not readily available.
Question 10 Report
Pasture crops are best used in preparing hay
Answer Details
Pasture crops are best used in preparing hay just after seed maturation. At this stage, the plants have reached their peak nutritional content, and the stems have begun to dry up, which makes them easier to cure for hay. Curing involves removing moisture from the plants to prevent spoilage during storage. If the plants are harvested before seed maturation, they will have less nutritional value, while harvesting them after they have started to dry up excessively will lead to excessive leaf loss, making the hay less nutritious.
Question 11 Report
Which of the following activities is not correct about extension agents?
Answer Details
The activity that is not correct about extension agents is option C, which is training school leavers to become professional farmers. Extension agents are mainly responsible for educating farmers on modern and improved techniques in agriculture, providing them with the necessary information, and teaching them how to use new technologies, equipment, and practices to increase productivity and reduce wastage. They also teach farmers how to prepare and apply compost manure, among other things. However, it is not within their scope of duty to train school leavers to become professional farmers. This role is mainly carried out by agricultural training institutions such as colleges of agriculture and universities offering agricultural programs.
Question 12 Report
The pregnancy hormone in female animals is
Answer Details
The pregnancy hormone in female animals is progesterone. Progesterone is a hormone produced by the ovaries of female animals during pregnancy. It plays a critical role in the maintenance of pregnancy by preventing the uterus from contracting and thus maintaining a suitable environment for the developing fetus.
Question 14 Report
The following crops are common staple foods in West Africa except
Answer Details
Coconut is not a common staple food in West Africa. Maize, cassava, and cowpea are staple foods in West Africa, meaning they are regularly consumed in large amounts and form a significant part of the region's diet. On the other hand, coconut is not a common crop in West Africa, and it is not typically consumed in large amounts as a staple food. Therefore, the correct answer is "coconut."
Question 16 Report
Water power is harnessed and converted into electrical power by
Answer Details
Water power can be harnessed by using turbines which convert the energy from the moving water into mechanical energy. This mechanical energy is then used to drive an electrical generator that converts the mechanical energy into electrical energy that can be used to power homes, buildings, and other electrical appliances. Therefore, the correct option is turbines.
Question 17 Report
A viral disease of ruminants in which the affected animal shows symptoms of high fever and blood stained diarrhoea is likely to be
Answer Details
The viral disease described is likely to be "rinderpest". Rinderpest is a highly contagious viral disease that affects ruminants such as cattle, buffalo, and sheep. It is characterized by symptoms such as high fever, nasal and ocular discharge, and bloody diarrhea. It can be fatal in up to 90% of infected animals, making it a significant threat to livestock populations.
Question 18 Report
Igneous rocks formed within the crust are called
Answer Details
Igneous rocks are rocks that solidify from molten or partially molten material. Igneous rocks formed within the crust are called plutonic rocks or intrusive rocks. Plutonic rocks form when magma solidifies slowly below the Earth's surface, resulting in a coarse-grained texture. In contrast, volcanic rocks or extrusive rocks form when magma or lava solidifies quickly on the Earth's surface, resulting in a fine-grained texture. Therefore, the correct answer to the question is plutonic.
Question 19 Report
The best way to preserve maize grains on a large scale is by
Answer Details
The best way to preserve maize grains on a large scale is by storing them in airtight containers or silos. This prevents moisture and insects from getting into the grains, which can cause spoilage or infestation. Storing maize grains under the sun or in soils may expose them to moisture and pests, while hanging them over fire places may expose them to smoke, which can affect the quality and safety of the grains. Earthen pots may not be suitable for large scale storage as they have limited capacity and may not be airtight. Airtight containers or silos can help to keep maize grains fresh and safe for a longer period of time, ensuring their availability and quality for consumption or sale.
Question 20 Report
Which of the following processes will not lead to the loss of nutrients from the soil?
Answer Details
Mulching is a process that involves covering the soil with organic matter, such as leaves or straw, to protect it from erosion, retain moisture, and regulate soil temperature. This process helps to build up soil organic matter and nutrients, rather than depleting them. Therefore, mulching will not lead to the loss of nutrients from the soil. On the other hand, erosion, harvesting, and leaching can lead to the loss of nutrients from the soil. Erosion can cause topsoil to wash away, taking with it valuable nutrients. Harvesting removes nutrients that have been stored in crops, while leaching occurs when water carries nutrients deep into the soil or beyond the root zone, making them unavailable to plants.
Question 21 Report
Parboiling is a term associated with the processing of
Answer Details
Parboiling is a term associated with the processing of rice. Parboiling involves partially boiling the rice grains in their husks, then removing the husks and allowing the grains to dry before being milled. The process helps to improve the nutritional value and shelf life of the rice, as well as making it easier to mill.
Question 23 Report
Which of the following will not lead to loss of nitrogen compounds from the soil?
Answer Details
Question 25 Report
What is the percentage porosity of a soil sample whose volume is 250cm when the volume of air is 200cm?
Answer Details
Question 26 Report
One factor which differentiates a subsistence from a commercial farmer is that the former produces
Answer Details
A subsistence farmer is one who farms for the benefit of his family, while a commercial farmer farms for profit. Therefore, the factor that differentiates a subsistence from a commercial farmer is that the former produces for the benefit of his family. A subsistence farmer is not concerned with making a profit or producing for the market but rather focuses on producing enough food to sustain his family's needs. In contrast, a commercial farmer produces crops or livestock primarily for sale and profit.
Question 27 Report
The side effects of chemical control of diseases and pests include the following except
Answer Details
Question 28 Report
A disadvantage of using organic manure on the soil is that
Answer Details
Organic manure has several benefits when applied to the soil. It helps to improve soil fertility, enhances soil structure, promotes soil aeration, and increases the availability of essential nutrients to plants. However, one of the disadvantages of using organic manure on the soil is that it may spread diseases fast. Organic manure, especially if it is not well-treated or sterilized, may contain pathogens, weed seeds, or other harmful microorganisms that can infect plants and cause diseases. Therefore, it is essential to properly compost, sterilize, or treat organic manure before applying it to the soil to reduce the risk of disease spread.
Question 29 Report
Which of the following management practices is specific to dairy farming?
Answer Details
Milking is the management practice that is specific to dairy farming. Milking is the process of extracting milk from the udder of a lactating dairy cow, which is the primary product of dairy farming. The milk is either sold for human consumption or processed into various dairy products such as cheese, butter, yogurt, and ice cream. Deticking is the process of removing ticks from the skin of the animal. Castration is the removal of the testicles of a male animal to prevent breeding and enhance meat quality. Deworming is the administration of drugs to eliminate internal parasites in livestock.
Question 30 Report
The functions of a farm manager include the following except
Answer Details
The question is asking which of the given options is NOT a function of a farm manager. The answer is "financing agricultural projects." A farm manager's primary functions are to make decisions, coordinate farm activities, and supervise farm laborers. While a farm manager may be involved in financial management, such as creating budgets or managing cash flow, their primary role is not to finance agricultural projects.
Question 31 Report
Maize is a very important crop because apart from serving as a staple, it
Answer Details
Maize is a very important crop because, apart from serving as a staple food for human consumption, it forms the base of most livestock feeds. This means that it is an essential component in the production of meat, dairy products, and eggs, which are important sources of protein for human consumption. Additionally, maize can be processed into various food products such as corn flakes, cornmeal, and grits. It can also be used for producing germ oil, which is used in the production of margarine, cooking oil, and salad dressings. Finally, maize residues such as stover and cobs can be used for animal bedding, fuel, and as a source of organic matter for soil improvement.
Question 32 Report
In cassava farming, rapid growth is promoted at the expense of tuber formation by the application of
Answer Details
In cassava farming, the application of nitrogen fertilizer promotes rapid growth at the expense of tuber formation. Nitrogen is a macronutrient that promotes the growth of leaves and stems in plants, but when present in excess, it suppresses the development of the root system and reduces the yield of tubers in cassava. Therefore, cassava farmers need to carefully manage the use of nitrogen fertilizer to avoid promoting excessive vegetative growth at the expense of tuber formation.
Question 33 Report
A variety of oil palm is
Answer Details
Out of the options provided, Tenera is a variety of oil palm. Tenera is a hybrid variety obtained by crossing Dura and Pisifera oil palm varieties. It is widely cultivated in Southeast Asia and is known for its high yield and resistance to diseases. Its fruit has a higher oil content compared to Dura and Pisifera varieties, making it suitable for commercial oil production.
Question 34 Report
A farm implement used for planting grains is the
Answer Details
The farm implement used for planting grains is the drill. The drill is a machine used for planting crops in rows. It is designed to make evenly spaced holes in the soil, drop in a seed, and cover it up. The drill is commonly used for planting grains such as wheat, corn, and soybeans. It is an important tool for modern agriculture because it allows farmers to plant large areas quickly and efficiently.
Question 35 Report
Leguminous cover crops do not
Answer Details
Leguminous cover crops do not reduce the soil microbial population. Leguminous cover crops such as clover, beans, and peas have root nodules that contain nitrogen-fixing bacteria. These bacteria are capable of taking nitrogen from the air and converting it into a form that can be used by plants. This process leads to an increase in soil nitrogen content, which can enhance plant growth and soil fertility. Leguminous cover crops also help to bind soil particles together through their roots, which can reduce soil erosion. Additionally, they can aid in improving the soil organic matter content, which can improve soil structure and water holding capacity. However, leguminous cover crops do not reduce the soil microbial population. In fact, they can provide a habitat for beneficial soil microorganisms, which can enhance soil health and productivity.
Question 36 Report
Clay particles are able to attract cations in the soil because they
Answer Details
Clay particles have excess negative charges, which makes them able to attract cations in the soil. The negative charges on the clay particles attract positively charged cations, such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium, which are important nutrients for plant growth. The attraction between the clay particles and the cations is known as cation exchange, and it helps to hold these nutrients in the soil where they can be accessed by plant roots. This is why clay soils are often very fertile, and why adding clay to sandy soils can help to improve their fertility.
Question 37 Report
The equilibrium price of rice is the price at which
Answer Details
The equilibrium price of rice is the price at which its supply equals its demand. In other words, it is the price where buyers are willing to buy the same quantity of rice that sellers are willing to sell. At this price, there is no excess supply or excess demand, and the market is said to be in a state of balance. If the price is set above the equilibrium price, there will be excess supply, and if it is set below the equilibrium price, there will be excess demand. Therefore, the equilibrium price is a key determinant of the price at which rice is sold in the market.
Question 38 Report
Plant breeders aim at obtaining the following except
Answer Details
Plant breeders aim at obtaining all of the following traits mentioned in the options except "adaptation of pollination". They focus on developing crops that have tolerance to climatic extremes, resistance to pests, disease, and pathogens, and are uniform in their time of maturity. Adapting pollination is not a common objective of plant breeding as it is a natural process that occurs in the plant reproductive cycle. However, plant breeders may select for specific traits related to pollination, such as self-fertility or cross-compatibility, in order to improve the quality or yield of the crop.
Question 39 Report
Ananas comosus is a
Answer Details
Ananas comosus is a fruit crop, commonly known as the pineapple. It is a tropical plant that produces the juicy and sweet edible fruit called a pineapple, which is enjoyed by many people around the world. The fruit is harvested when it ripens and is commonly eaten raw or used in various culinary dishes and beverages.
Question 40 Report
A fruit which will not normally be used in the manufacture of jam is
Question 41 Report
In the event of increased government subsidies, the farmer's production cost
Answer Details
When there is an increase in government subsidies, farmers can produce their goods at a lower cost because the government is providing financial assistance to help offset some of the expenses incurred in production. This reduction in production costs leads to an increase in the supply of goods produced by farmers, since they can now produce more for the same cost. Therefore, the correct answer is: "falls, hence supply increases".
Question 42 Report
The land tenure system that results in fragmentation of land is
Answer Details
The land tenure system that results in fragmentation of land is inheritance. This is because when land is passed down from one generation to another through inheritance, it is often divided among the heirs of the deceased. Over time, this can result in the fragmentation of land into smaller and smaller parcels, which can be difficult to manage and cultivate efficiently. This is a common issue in many parts of the world, particularly in areas where land is a scarce resource and population growth is high.
Question 46 Report
An adult female goat is a/an
Answer Details
An adult female goat is called a "doe".
Question 47 Report
The following factors are necessary for siting fish pond except
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The answer is "climatic conditions". The factors necessary for siting fish pond are the availability of a reliable source of water supply, type of soil that is suitable for pond construction, and topography which should be flat or gently sloping. Climatic conditions, although important, are not necessary for siting a fish pond because the pond can be constructed in different climates provided that the temperature and humidity levels are within the acceptable range for the species of fish being reared.
Question 48 Report
Why would an extension officer prefer the use of television to radio when introducing a new technology to farmers?
Answer Details
Question 49 Report
The interval from the beginning of one heat period to the beginning of another is known as
Answer Details
The correct answer is "oestrus cycle". The oestrus cycle refers to the reproductive cycle in female animals that have a periodic sexual receptivity and ability to conceive. The interval between the beginning of one heat period (when the female is in oestrus) to the beginning of another is called the oestrus cycle. The length of the oestrus cycle varies depending on the species of animal, but it typically lasts from a few days to several weeks.
Question 50 Report
The following are practical measures of controlling trypanosomiasis except
Answer Details
Question 51 Report
In the nitrogen cycle, nitrite is oxidized to nitrate by
Answer Details
Nitrite is oxidized to nitrate by Nitrobacter. Nitrobacter is a type of bacteria that is involved in the process of nitrification, which is a part of the nitrogen cycle. During nitrification, ammonia is first converted to nitrite by Nitrosomonas bacteria, and then nitrite is further oxidized to nitrate by Nitrobacter bacteria. Nitrate is an important form of nitrogen that plants can use for growth.
Question 52 Report
Which of the following parts of a tractor is most essential in operating a mower?
Answer Details
The most essential part of a tractor in operating a mower is the power-take-off (PTO) shaft. This is because the PTO shaft transfers the power from the tractor's engine to the mower's cutting blades, which enables the blades to rotate and cut the grass. Without the PTO shaft, the mower will not receive power and will not be able to function.
Question 53 Report
Which of the following soil water is tightly held to the surface of soil particles?
Answer Details
The soil water that is tightly held to the surface of soil particles is known as hygroscopic water. This type of water is not easily available to plants because it is held too tightly to soil particles. Hygroscopic water is attracted to the soil particles by weak electrostatic forces, and it cannot be easily removed from the soil unless it is heated. This type of water is important for soil structure because it helps to maintain the pore space in the soil.
Question 54 Report
Which of the following methods of irrigation is best for a farm with an undulating landscape?
Answer Details
Of the four options listed, sprinkler irrigation is best for a farm with an undulating landscape. This is because sprinkler irrigation can apply water to crops in a uniform manner, regardless of the terrain, by spraying water over the crops. Sprinklers can be set up on risers or towers to accommodate changes in elevation, and can be adjusted to spray water at different angles and rates to match the slope of the land. Flooding, furrow, and basin irrigation all rely on gravity to distribute water, and are therefore less effective on sloping land. Flooding, for example, can result in erosion and runoff on steep slopes, while furrow and basin irrigation can lead to uneven distribution of water on undulating land.
Question 56 Report
(a) Discuss the effects of rural-urban migration on agricultural production.
(b) Explain how: (i) demand affects agricultural production given that supply is constant (ii) supply affects agricultural production when demand is constant.
(c) State two effects of: (i) demand on farmers' income when price is constant (ii) supply on farmers' income when demand is constant. (d) State five roles expected of a farm manager in a farm enterprise.
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None
Question 57 Report
(a) State four effects of feed shortage on animal production. (b) List four areas of specialization in agriculture, and state two contributions of each to agricultural development.
None
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Question 58 Report
(a) State two methods of calculating depreciation of farm machines. (b) List four roles of capital in agricultural production. (c) Explain five major roles played by middlemen in the marketing of agricultural produce.
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None
Question 59 Report
(a) Define the terms budding and grafting (b) List four materials required for budding (c) Give two reasons why the improvement of crops by selection may not produce the desired results (d) State four disadvantages of asexual reproduction and four advantages of sexual reproduction in crop plants.
Answer Details
None
Question 60 Report
TEST OF PRACTICAL KNOWLEDGE QUESTION
Observe the experimental set-ups A and B in which 120ml of water was made to drain through each of the different soils contained in the funnels.
Use the experimental set-ups to answer Questions (a) - (d).
(a) State the volume of water collected in each of the measuring cylinders in setups A and B.
(b) Calculate the volume of water retained in each of the set-ups A and B.
(c) Calculate the percentage of:
(i) water which percolated through each of the soils in set-ups A and B
(ii) water retained in each of the soils in set-ups A and B.
(d) Which one of the soils in set-ups A and B will be better for crop production? Give three reasons for your answer.
None
Answer Details
None
Question 61 Report
TEST OF PRACTICAL KNOWLEDGE QUESTION
(a) ldentify specimens N, O and Q.
Specimen N; Specimen O; Specimen Q;
(b) Name one host of each of specimens N, O and Q.
(c) Name four economic importance of each of specimens N and Q.
(d) State four control measures for specimen O.
Answer Details
None
Question 62 Report
Discuss the following practices in crop production: (a) transplanting (b) shading (c) supplying filling-in (d) nursery.
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Question 63 Report
(a) Define land. (b) State the two major classifications of land based on uses and give two examples in each case. (c) List six factors that influence the availability of land for agricultural production and explain two of the factors.
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Question 64 Report
(a) State three methods of irrigating a small nursery. (b) Enumerate three factors to be considered in the choice of each of: (i) surface irrigation method (ii) sub-surface irrigation method. (c) .State two advantages of subsurface irrigation (d) Enumerate five ways by which the build-up of diseases could be reduced on an irrigated farm.
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Question 65 Report
TEST OF PRACTICAL KNOWLEDGE QUESTION
(a) Give the botanical name of each of specimens I (Common wireweed) J (coatbuttons), K (Giant star grass), and L (cogongrass)
(b) Describe Specimen K
(c) Describe the process of preparing silage from specimen K
(d) Mention two methods for the effective control of specimen L on a farm.
None
Answer Details
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