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The topography of a piece of land determines the soil productivity - NSC Agricultural Management Practices - Question 2 - 2018 - Paper 1
Question 2
The topography of a piece of land determines the soil productivity. 2.1.1 Redraw the table and explain how terrain and topographical aspects can affect the crop pro... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:The topography of a piece of land determines the soil productivity - NSC Agricultural Management Practices - Question 2 - 2018 - Paper 1
Step 1
Redraw the table and explain how terrain and topographical aspects can affect the crop production potential of the soil.
Answer
| TERRAIN AND TOPOGRAPHICAL ASPECTS | PRODUCTION POTENTIAL |
|---|---|
| Deep soil with few rocks, gentle slopes | Greater production potential, more suited for crop production / higher yield |
| Shallow soil on moderate rocky slope | Less production potential; more suited for grazing |
| Very steep slopes | Better suited for grazing, wild life and forestry |
Explanation
The terrain and topographical aspects have a significant impact on soil productivity:
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Deep soil with few rocks, gentle slopes: This type of terrain allows for better root development and drainage, enhancing the crop production potential, making it suitable for growing a variety of crops.
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Shallow soil on moderate rocky slope: While it can still support some agriculture, the rocky nature limits root depth and soil moisture retention, making it less productive for crops but still viable for grazing livestock.
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Very steep slopes: Such areas often lead to higher erosion risks and are not suitable for conventional agriculture; however, they can support certain forms of grazing and wildlife, making them valuable for specific land use.