JAMB UTME - Agricultural Science - 2019

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Land-use practices can harm soil. The way people use land can affect the levels of nutrients and pollution in soil. Any activity that exposes soil to wind and rain can lead to soil loss. Farming, construction and development, and mining are among the main activities that impact soil resources. Flooding, over grazing and bush burning all have a harmful effect on the soil. Crop rotation is the practice of growing a series of dissimilar or different types of crops in the same area in sequenced seasons.

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The main mode of infection of rinderpest disease in cattle is through inhalation. Rinderpest is a viral disease that affects cattle and other cloven-hoofed animals. The virus is highly contagious and can spread rapidly through herds. The virus is shed in large amounts in nasal and ocular discharges, saliva, and feces of infected animals, which can contaminate the environment and infect other animals. Inhalation of the virus occurs when healthy animals breathe in the virus from the air or from contaminated surfaces, such as feed and water troughs or fences. The virus can survive for several days in the environment, which means that even if an infected animal has been removed from a location, the virus can still be present and infect other animals. While grazing and drinking contaminated water can also lead to infection, inhalation is the primary mode of transmission for rinderpest. The virus can also be spread through contact with contaminated objects or through the handling of infected animals, but these modes of transmission are less common compared to inhalation. In summary, the main mode of infection of rinderpest disease in cattle is through inhalation of the virus, which can be present in the air or on contaminated surfaces.

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A castrated cockerel is called a "capon". A cockerel is a young male chicken, and when it is castrated, its testicles are removed, which affects its growth and development. Capons are typically larger and fattier than uncastrated chickens, and their meat is considered to be more tender and flavorful. The terms "boiler", "pullet", and "hen" refer to other types of chickens, but they do not describe a castrated cockerel specifically. Therefore, the correct answer is "capon" when referring to a castrated cockerel.

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There are various forms of land tenure systems in Nigeria ranging from communal ownership, inheritance tenure system, leasehold tenure system, rent tenure system, gift tenure system, freehold tenure system and tenant at government will. Land are popularly and commonly inherited in Nigeria, this has been the oldest and commonest land tenure in Nigeria.

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Maize grows best on loamy soil. Loamy soil is a mixture of sand, silt, and clay, and is considered one of the best soil types for growing crops like maize. This is because loamy soil has a balanced mix of particles that allows it to hold water and nutrients well while also providing good drainage. The balance of sand, silt, and clay in loamy soil allows for good aeration, which is important for healthy root growth in maize plants. Sandy soil, on the other hand, has larger particles that do not hold water or nutrients well and can lead to poor crop growth. Sandy-clay soil and silty-clay soil have higher clay content, which can lead to poor drainage and waterlogging in wet conditions, making them less suitable for growing maize. In summary, maize grows best on loamy soil, which has a balanced mix of sand, silt, and clay that provides good drainage, aeration, and nutrient holding capacity for healthy crop growth.

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There are different varieties of oil palm: dura palms have kernels with a thick shell; pisifera palms have kernels with no shell; tenera palms have kernels with a thin shell. Dure, Tenera and Pisifera are cultivate varieties of oil palm. Choice B is correct.

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Legumes are different from grasses because they form a symbiotic relationship with bacteria called rhizobia in the nodules of their roots. This symbiotic relationship allows legumes to fix atmospheric nitrogen into a form that is available to the plant, which in turn makes them an excellent source of nitrogen for other plants, including grasses. Grasses, on the other hand, do not have this ability to fix nitrogen and rely on other sources of nitrogen such as fertilizers or nitrogen from the atmosphere that has been fixed by other means. In addition to their ability to fix nitrogen, legumes are also an important source of protein and other nutrients for both humans and animals. This is due to the fact that they have a higher protein content than most grasses. Therefore, legumes and grasses serve different purposes in agriculture and can be used together in a complementary way to improve soil fertility and provide a balanced source of nutrition for livestock and humans.

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A good silage should be free of moulds. Silage is made by fermenting green fodder in a silo or pit to preserve it as animal feed. Moulds can grow on the silage if the conditions are not right, such as when there is too much moisture or oxygen in the silo. This can lead to a decrease in the quality of the silage, as well as potential health problems for the animals consuming it. Mouldy silage can contain mycotoxins, which are toxic substances produced by certain types of moulds. When consumed by animals, mycotoxins can cause a range of health problems, including reduced milk production, poor weight gain, and even death in severe cases. Therefore, it is important to ensure that silage is made under the right conditions, such as with the correct moisture content and sufficient compaction to exclude oxygen. This will help to prevent the growth of moulds and ensure that the silage is of good quality for animal consumption.

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A crop not requiring more than 750mm of annual rainfall is most suitable for cultivation in the "Sahel savanna". The Sahel savanna is a region located in West and Central Africa, characterized by hot temperatures and low to moderate levels of rainfall, typically ranging from 500mm to 750mm per year. This makes it well-suited for crops that do not require high levels of moisture and can tolerate arid conditions. Rainforests, on the other hand, receive much higher levels of rainfall, typically over 2000mm per year, making them less suitable for crops that require less moisture. The Sudan and Guinea savannas, which are located further south, receive slightly higher levels of rainfall compared to the Sahel savanna, but not enough to support crops that require a lot of moisture.

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Sources of credit include:
- Licensed banks
- Deposit-taking companies
- Money lenders
- Government agencies
The informal sources of credit to smallholder farmers as identified in the study area were family or friends, money lenders, produce buyers and farmers' cooperatives, while the formal sources of credit were Nigerian agricultural cooperative and rural development bank, microfinance banks and commercial banks.
Mortgage banks are banks that specializes in originating and / or servicing mortgage loans. A mortgage is a loan in which property or real estate is used as collateral. The borrower enters into an agreement with the lender (usually a bank) wherein the borrower receives cash upfront then makes payments over a set time span until he pays back the lender in full.

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The option "Kidding" is not a branch of agriculture. Agriculture is the science, art, and business of cultivating land, raising crops, and raising livestock for food, fuel, and other products. Agriculture includes many branches such as agronomy, horticulture, animal husbandry, and agricultural economics, among others. Forestry is the science of managing and conserving forests, including the study of trees, woodlands, and their ecosystem. Fishery is the study and management of fish and other aquatic species for commercial, recreational, and conservation purposes. "Kidding" is not a recognized branch of agriculture and is not related to the field.

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The pox disease in livestock are caused by "viruses". Pox diseases are a group of viral infections that affect livestock, including cattle, sheep, and goats. These diseases are highly contagious and can spread rapidly through populations of animals, causing skin lesions, respiratory symptoms, and, in severe cases, death. Bacteria, protozoa, and fungi are not the cause of pox diseases in livestock. Bacteria are single-celled microorganisms that can cause a wide range of diseases in livestock, but they are not responsible for pox diseases. Protozoa are single-celled organisms that can also cause diseases in livestock, but they are not the cause of pox diseases. Fungi are multicellular organisms that can cause infections in livestock, but they are not the cause of pox diseases.

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Calcium is not a micro-nutrient. Nutrients required by plants for growth and development can be classified into two categories: macro-nutrients and micro-nutrients. Macro-nutrients are nutrients that are required in larger amounts by plants, while micro-nutrients are required in smaller amounts. Calcium is a macro-nutrient that is essential for plant growth and development. It is required in relatively large amounts and plays an important role in cell wall formation, root development, and the regulation of other nutrients in the plant. In contrast, Iron, Manganese, and Boron are micro-nutrients that are required by plants in smaller amounts. These micro-nutrients are important for various functions in the plant, such as photosynthesis, enzyme activation, and hormone regulation. Therefore, Calcium is not a micro-nutrient because it is required in larger amounts by plants compared to micro-nutrients like Iron, Manganese, and Boron.

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The factor of production whose reward is profit is entrepreneurship. Entrepreneurship involves the ability to identify business opportunities, take risks, and organize resources (such as land, labor, and capital) in order to create and run a successful business. Entrepreneurs are typically the ones who invest their own time, money, and effort into starting and managing a business. In return for taking on the risks and uncertainties associated with starting and running a business, entrepreneurs are rewarded with profits. Profit is the return on investment that entrepreneurs receive for successfully creating and managing a business that provides goods or services that are valued by consumers. So, to sum up, the factor of production whose reward is profit is entrepreneurship, as it is the driving force behind the creation and success of businesses that generate profits.

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Cowpea is the non-oil crop among the following. While coconut, beniseed (sesame), and melon are all oil crops that are grown primarily for their oil-rich seeds, cowpea is a legume crop that is grown for its edible seeds, which are rich in protein and other nutrients. Cowpea is commonly consumed as a food crop in many parts of the world, and it is also used as a forage crop for livestock. Unlike coconut, beniseed, and melon, which are all highly valued for their oil content, cowpea is not typically grown for oil production. While it does contain some oil, the oil content of cowpea seeds is relatively low compared to oil crops like coconut and beniseed. Instead, cowpea is grown primarily for its nutritional value and as a source of protein for human and animal consumption. So, of the options given, cowpea is the non-oil crop, as it is not primarily grown for its oil content.

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The New Zealand is a breed of rabbit, which despite the name, is American in origin. The breed originated in California, possibly from rabbits imported from New Zealand.

New zealand is a breed of Rabbit

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The target groups of an agricultural Extension agent are typically individuals or groups who are involved in agriculture or rural development. These can include farmers, rural youth, women's groups, agribusinesses, cooperatives, and others who are engaged in agricultural activities. Of the options given, the one that is not a target group of an agricultural Extension agent is political parties. Political parties are not directly involved in agricultural activities or rural development, and therefore would not typically be a target group for agricultural Extension services. Extension agents are typically tasked with providing education, training, and other forms of support to help farmers and rural communities improve their productivity, sustainability, and economic well-being. They may work with individual farmers or groups, providing information and guidance on topics such as crop and livestock management, pest and disease control, soil fertility, marketing, and other issues that can affect agricultural productivity and profitability. So, the correct answer is political parties.

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Demand for most farm products is inelastic. People can consume only so much then they are satiated. Even if price drops they will not buy much more. When demand is inelastic a drop in price that spurs more quantity being sold results in lower revenue and profit for the producer.
Choice B is correct. A price inelastic demand would mean that an increase in price would not necessarily lead to a decline in quantity demanded or in case it does proportion of quantity change would be lesser vis a vis the change in price.
Demand tends to be price inelastic for agricultural produce for the following reasons.
1. Price changes don't affect consumption much
2. These produce are mostly necessities
3. Possibility of postponement is not there for most of these produce

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The type of land tenure system is the freehold system. The freehold system is a type of land tenure system in which an individual or entity owns the land outright and has the right to use, occupy, and sell the land as they see fit. This type of system is common in many countries around the world, including the United States, Canada, and Australia. Under the freehold system, the owner of the land has complete control over it, and can use it for any legal purpose, such as agriculture, residential or commercial development, or conservation. The owner is also responsible for paying property taxes on the land and any structures or improvements that are built on it. This system is different from other types of land tenure systems, such as leasehold or communal systems, where individuals or groups have limited rights to use or occupy the land, and ownership may be held by a government entity or a community as a whole. Overall, the freehold system is designed to provide individuals or entities with secure and exclusive rights to use and manage the land, which can encourage investment, development, and long-term planning.

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Irrigation is not a factor to consider when planning a farmstead because it is not a requirement for a farmstead. A farmstead refers to a farm and the buildings and other structures on the farm, such as a house, barn, and outbuildings. Accessibility, topography, and soil type are all important factors to consider when planning a farmstead because they can impact the type of crops or livestock that can be raised on the farm, as well as the design and placement of buildings and other structures. Accessibility refers to the ease of getting to and from the farm, which can impact the transportation of goods and people. Topography refers to the natural features of the land, such as hills and valleys, which can impact the placement of buildings and the type of crops that can be grown. Soil type refers to the type of soil on the farm, which can impact the type of crops that can be grown and the fertility of the soil.

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The maturity period of groundnut is typically between 4 to 5 months. This means that from the time the groundnut is planted until it is fully grown and ready for harvest, it takes between 4 to 5 months. During this period, the groundnut undergoes several stages of growth, including germination, flowering, and pod development, until it reaches maturity. The length of the maturity period can vary depending on the specific variety of groundnut and the growing conditions, such as climate, soil, and water availability. However, on average, it takes about 4 to 5 months for groundnuts to reach maturity and be ready for harvesting.

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Oil palm trees do well in soils with a pH level between 5.5 and 6.5. Soil pH is a measure of the acidity or alkalinity of the soil, and it affects the availability of nutrients to plants. The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14, with a pH of 7 considered neutral. Values below 7 are considered acidic, and those above 7 are alkaline. Oil palm trees have specific nutrient requirements, and the availability of these nutrients can be affected by soil pH. Soils with a pH level between 5.5 and 6.5 are considered slightly acidic to neutral, which is optimal for oil palm growth and production. In soils that are too acidic or alkaline, certain nutrients may be unavailable to the plant, leading to nutrient deficiencies and reduced yields. It's worth noting that different soils have varying levels of acidity or alkalinity, and it's important to test the soil pH level before planting oil palm trees to ensure the soil is suitable for the crop. Soil pH can be adjusted through the application of soil amendments such as lime to increase the pH or sulfur to decrease the pH, depending on the specific needs of the soil and the crop.

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The engine oil in a tractor is something that requires daily checking. Engine oil is a vital component of any engine, including those found in tractors. It helps lubricate the moving parts of the engine, reducing friction and heat buildup that can damage the engine over time. It also helps remove contaminants and debris from the engine, keeping it clean and operating smoothly. Because tractors are often used in dusty, dirty, and challenging environments, the engine oil can become contaminated quickly. Therefore, it is important to check the oil level and quality on a daily basis to ensure that the engine is properly lubricated and functioning at optimal levels. While other components like the spark plug, air cleaner, and battery are also important and should be checked regularly, they do not require daily checking like the engine oil. In summary, the component that requires daily checking in a tractor is the engine oil.

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To eliminate food shortage, farmers should cultivate more varieties of crops. This means growing different types of crops that are suitable for the local climate and soil conditions. By growing a variety of crops, farmers can reduce their dependence on a single crop, which can be vulnerable to pests, diseases, and other environmental factors. Furthermore, farmers can also use crop rotation, a farming technique where different crops are planted in a specific sequence, to improve soil fertility and reduce pests and diseases. This helps to increase crop yields and ensure a more sustainable food supply. While land tenure by inheritance and constructing farm buildings can be helpful for farmers, they may not directly address food shortage. Similarly, shifting from crop to animal production may not be the most effective solution, as it can require more resources and land to produce the same amount of food.

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The majority of the world's yam production takes place in Africa, and the rest of it in Asia. The optimum temperature for storing yam tuber under cold storage is 280K (7°C). Therefore, 7°C is correct.

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Iodine is essential for the production of thyrozine, which is a hormone produced by the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland is a small butterfly-shaped gland located in the neck. Thyrozine helps regulate the metabolism of animals and other organisms, which is the process by which they use energy from food to carry out their daily activities. Iodine is important because it is a key component of thyrozine. Without enough iodine, the thyroid gland cannot produce enough thyrozine, which can lead to a variety of health problems, including a slow metabolism and weight gain. In conclusion, iodine is an essential nutrient for animals, and it is important for the production of the hormone thyrozine, which helps regulate metabolism.

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The reduction of ten seedlings of maize to two per stand is referred to as Thinning. Thinning is the process of removing some of the weaker or excess seedlings in a plant stand to allow the remaining plants to have enough space, light, and nutrients to grow properly. This helps to ensure that each plant has enough resources to reach maturity and produce a good yield. In the case of maize seedlings, if there are too many plants growing in close proximity, they may compete with each other for resources, leading to smaller and weaker plants. By thinning the stand down to two seedlings per stand, you are providing the remaining plants with the necessary resources they need to grow strong and healthy.

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The main difference between a disc plough and a disc harrow is their purpose and how they interact with the soil. A disc plough is used to turn over and break up the soil to create furrows for planting crops, while a disc harrow is used to break up clumps of soil, level the ground, and prepare it for planting by chopping up weeds, roots, and plant residue. The disc part of a plough is notched, which helps it to cut through the soil, while the disc part of a harrow is round, which allows it to smooth out the soil surface.

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Fertilization or fertilizer application is the supplemental application of plant nutrients to crop plants to augment the supply from natural sources. This consists of applying nutrient-containing materials, called fertilizers, generally into the soil in proximity to receptor plants.

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The causative organism of maize rust is a fungus. Maize rust is a fungal disease that affects maize plants and is caused by the fungus Puccinia polysora. The fungus infects the leaves of the maize plant, causing yellow to brownish-orange rust-like pustules or spots on the leaves. Maize rust can have a significant impact on crop yield and quality, and it is important for farmers to take steps to prevent and control the disease. This can include the use of disease-resistant maize varieties, crop rotation, proper sanitation practices, and timely application of fungicides when necessary. So, the correct answer is fungus.

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Land race is not a breed of rabbits. Landrace is actually a breed of domestic pigs that originated in Denmark, and is known for its good maternal instincts and high fertility. New Zealand White, Chinchilla, and Californian White, on the other hand, are all breeds of rabbits. New Zealand White is a breed that is commonly used for meat production, while Chinchilla is a breed that is valued for its soft and dense fur. Californian White is a breed that was developed in the United States, and is also commonly used for meat production. Therefore, Land race is the option that is not a breed of rabbits, but rather a breed of domestic pigs.

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Newcastle disease is a viral disease that primarily affects poultry birds such as chickens, turkeys, ducks, and geese. This disease can cause severe respiratory, nervous and digestive symptoms in infected birds and can lead to high mortality rates in flocks. In severe cases, Newcastle disease can also spread to other birds in the area and cause outbreaks. It is important to maintain good biosecurity measures and to seek veterinary advice if any signs of the disease are suspected in a flock.

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Soil texture is a classification instrument used both in the field and laboratory to determine soil classes based on their physical texture. Soil texture can be determined using qualitative methods such as texture by feel, and quantitative methods such as the hydrometer method. Soil Texture is the classification of soil based on its physical texture and characteristics, particularly the size of the particles that make up the soil.

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Out of the four options, "Involvement in local politics" is not a quality of a good extension worker. An extension worker is a professional who helps farmers and rural communities to adopt new technologies and improve their agricultural practices. To be effective in this role, an extension worker should have certain qualities, such as: - Organizational Ability: The ability to plan and carry out activities efficiently, and to manage resources effectively. - Clear Judgement: The ability to analyze information, make sound decisions, and provide advice to others. - Initiative: The ability to take the lead in solving problems and identifying opportunities for improvement. Involvement in local politics is not a quality of a good extension worker because extension workers should maintain impartiality and not align themselves with any particular political party or interest group. They should be focused on providing impartial and evidence-based advice to support the development of the rural communities they serve.

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Rural farmers can obtain loans from various sources, but the most common ones are government agencies, merchant banks, and money lenders. Government agencies, such as agricultural development banks, offer loans to farmers at subsidized interest rates to encourage agricultural production and improve food security. These loans are often long-term and have flexible repayment terms. Merchant banks, on the other hand, offer loans to farmers based on their creditworthiness and ability to repay. These loans typically have higher interest rates than government loans, but they may offer more flexibility in terms of loan amount and repayment terms. Money lenders are private individuals or organizations that offer loans to farmers, often at very high interest rates. Farmers who are unable to obtain loans from government agencies or merchant banks may turn to money lenders as a last resort. However, borrowing from money lenders can be risky as the high interest rates and fees can make it difficult for farmers to repay the loan, leading to a cycle of debt and financial insecurity. Overall, it is important for farmers to carefully consider their options and choose the source of loans that best suits their needs and financial situation.

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Fertilizers are applied to fishponds to serve as nutrients for plankton. Plankton are tiny organisms that live in water and are a primary source of food for fish. Fertilizers contain essential nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus that are necessary for the growth and reproduction of plankton. As the plankton grow and multiply, they provide a valuable food source for fish in the pond. Additionally, the plankton consume nutrients in the water, which can help purify it by reducing the levels of harmful chemicals and pollutants. Therefore, applying fertilizers to fishponds can help promote the growth of plankton and ultimately support a healthy ecosystem for fish.

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The advantages of the sprinkler method of irrigation include the fact that the system can be made automatic, they are portable making them suitable for use, and the rate of application of irrigation water can be controlled. However, one disadvantage of the sprinkler method is that it may be difficult for local farmers to use. The sprinkler method of irrigation involves spraying water onto the crops from above, using a system of pipes and nozzles. This method is beneficial because it allows for water to be distributed evenly over the crops, which helps to ensure that each plant receives an adequate amount of water. The system can also be made automatic, which means that it can be set to turn on and off at specific times, making it a convenient option for farmers. Additionally, the portability of the sprinkler system makes it suitable for use in a variety of settings, including fields, gardens, and lawns. Farmers can easily move the sprinkler system from one area to another, allowing them to irrigate different parts of their land as needed. The rate of application of irrigation water can also be controlled with the sprinkler method. This means that farmers can adjust the amount of water that is applied to their crops, depending on factors such as weather conditions and the stage of growth of the plants. However, one disadvantage of the sprinkler method is that it may be difficult for local farmers to use, especially if they lack the technical knowledge and skills required to install and maintain the system. Additionally, the cost of setting up a sprinkler system may be prohibitive for some farmers, which can limit its accessibility.

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Farm surveying is the process of measuring and mapping out the position, height, size and boundary of an area of farmland. Chain is not a farm survey equipment but it is kind of used in measurement.
Therefore, choice D is correct

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Crop rotation is the practice of growing a series of dissimilar or different types of crops in the same area in sequenced seasons. It is done so that the soil of farms is not used for only one set of nutrients. It helps in reducing soil erosion and increases soil fertility and yield crop. Choice A is correct. Crop rotation involves the growing of crops one after other in a particular sequence

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Coffee is cultivated in many places in tropical Latin America, Asia and Africa between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn. It grows best in places with rich soil, reliable rainfall and altitudes between 3000 and 6000 feet. As a rule, the higher the elevation the coffee is grown the better the quality. The ideal pH of coffee is between 6.5 to 7.5. Therefore, choice D is correct.