Photo AI
Mechanisation implies the partial replacement of labour by making a capital investment - NSC Agricultural Management Practices - Question 2 - 2018 - Paper 1
Question 2
Mechanisation implies the partial replacement of labour by making a capital investment. 2.1.1 Name FOUR factors farmers should consider when deciding to introduce m... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Mechanisation implies the partial replacement of labour by making a capital investment - NSC Agricultural Management Practices - Question 2 - 2018 - Paper 1
Step 1
Name FOUR factors farmers should consider when deciding to introduce machinery in their farming practices.
Answer
- Cost of Equipment: Farmers should evaluate the initial investment required for machinery.
- Efficiency of Equipment: The potential to increase productivity and reduce labor time should be assessed.
- Quality of Equipment: Durability and technology of the machinery can impact long-term savings and efficiency.
- Maintenance Costs: Ongoing costs to maintain machinery and the availability of service mechanisms should be considered.
Step 2
Briefly discuss FOUR reasons why farmers would rather use machinery than manual labour.
Answer
- Simplifies Supervision: Machinery often requires fewer supervisors which can reduce management complexity.
- Increases Labour Efficiency: Machinery can perform tasks faster than human workers, increasing the area that can be managed.
- Eliminates Fatigue: Machines can work continuously without breaks, enabling sustained productivity.
- Less Dependence on Weather Conditions: Machinery can be used in a wider range of conditions compared to manual labor, reducing delays.
Step 3
Name THREE factors which influence land use for livestock grazing.
Answer
- Palatability of Fodder: The quality of available grass and vegetation can influence grazing patterns.
- Topography: The physical shape of the land impacts the ease of grazing.
- Water Availability: Accessibility to water resources is crucial for livestock health and productivity.
Step 4
Step 5
Step 6
Classify the descriptions below according to the type of capital and the term of credit (short, medium or long term) as used in agriculture: 2.4.3 Mortgage at a commercial bank, payable over a period of 20 years, to obtain more land to expand the farm.
Answer
This is classified as Long term credit.
Step 7
Step 8
Step 9
Step 10
Compile a budget for a farm enterprise of your choice. (You have to indicate your enterprise to receive marks.) b) Content – at least FOUR entries.
Answer
-
Seeds: 1000
Unit Price: 500 -
Fertiliser: 500
Unit Price: 10,000 -
Watering Equipment: 10
Unit Price: 500 -
Labor Costs: 200 hours
Unit Price: 3,000
Step 11
Step 12
Describe FOUR ways to improve the soil reaction.
Answer
- Add Dolomite Agricultural Lime: This helps to raise the soil pH making it more suitable for crops.
- Maintain Nutrient Levels: Adding necessary nutrients can enhance the soil's chemical balance.
- Increase Magnesium Levels: Using magnesium-rich amendments can improve soil health.
- Adjust pH: Using acidifying agents to decrease the pH to optimal levels for crop growth.
Step 13
Discuss THREE negative effects associated with the excess use of herbicides.
Answer
- Environmental Pollution: Excess herbicides can runoff into water bodies, harming aquatic life.
- Impact on Food Chain: They can affect organisms higher up in the food chain, disrupting ecosystems.
- Resistance Build-up: Continuous use can lead to herbicide-resistant weed species, complicating future management.
Step 14
Name and discuss the negative aspects of farming practice for continuously planting the same crop on the same land consecutively.
Answer
- Depletion of Soil Nutrients: Continuous planting of the same crop can lead to nutrient deficiencies in the soil.
- Increased Pest and Disease Pressure: A monoculture system can attract specific pests and diseases, leading to outbreaks.
- Soil Structure Deterioration: Repeated crops can lead to compaction and erosion, negatively affecting soil health.