Photo AI
Scientists investigated the effect of soil nitrate ion concentration on the yield of corn - AQA - GCSE Biology Combined Science - Question 4 - 2022 - Paper 2
Question 4
Scientists investigated the effect of soil nitrate ion concentration on the yield of corn. This is the method used: 1. Corn plants were grown in a large box of soi... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Scientists investigated the effect of soil nitrate ion concentration on the yield of corn - AQA - GCSE Biology Combined Science - Question 4 - 2022 - Paper 2
Step 1
Step 2
Complete Figure 3.
Answer
- Label the y-axis as 'Mean mass of corn per plant in grams'.
- Use a suitable scale (e.g., increments of 50 grams).
- Plot points corresponding to each nitrate concentration against the mean mass:
- (0, 122)
- (10, 195)
- (20, 256)
- (30, 268)
- (40, 240)
- (50, 184)
- Connect the points with a suitable line of best fit.
Step 3
Describe the relationship between soil nitrate ion concentration and the mean mass of corn per plant.
Answer
As soil nitrate ion concentration increases from 0 to 30 ppm, the mean mass of corn per plant increases. However, at concentrations greater than 30 ppm, the mean mass begins to decrease.
Step 4
Evaluate the economic and environmental implications of adding fertiliser to soil in nitrate ion concentrations ranging from 0 to 50 ppm.
Answer
Economic implications include increased corn yield and higher income up to a certain concentration (30 ppm). Beyond this, yield may decline, irrespective of further investment in fertilisers. Environmental implications could involve run-off into rivers leading to eutrophication, impacting water quality and aquatic life. Thus, balancing fertiliser use is crucial for sustainable farming practices.