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The yield capacity of a piece of land is mainly determined by the physical characteristics of the soil - NSC Agricultural Sciences - Question 3 - 2019 - Paper 2
Question 3
The yield capacity of a piece of land is mainly determined by the physical characteristics of the soil. It can be increased to a certain limit per unit by means of i... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:The yield capacity of a piece of land is mainly determined by the physical characteristics of the soil - NSC Agricultural Sciences - Question 3 - 2019 - Paper 2
Step 1
Identify the economic characteristic of land illustrated in this scenario.
Answer
The economic characteristic of land illustrated in this scenario is the Law of Diminishing Return. This principle states that as more units of input are added to a fixed amount of land, the increase in output will eventually diminish.
Step 2
Describe the implication of the economic characteristic of land identified in QUESTION 3.1.1.
Answer
The implication of the Law of Diminishing Return is that there is a maximum point of production that land can achieve. Once this point is reached, adding more inputs (like labor or fertilizers) will result in smaller increases in output, effectively limiting the land's productivity potential.
Step 3
State TWO ways in which a farmer can improve the productivity of land.
Answer
- Improving Soil Fertility: This can be achieved through crop rotation and the application of organic matter or fertilizers.
- Water Management: Efficient irrigation techniques can enhance the availability of water, which is vital for crop growth.
Step 4
State THREE functions of land as a production factor.
Answer
- Source of Raw Materials: Land provides the materials needed for production, such as crops and timber.
- Provides Space: It offers the necessary area for physical farming activities and livestock grazing.
- Source of Minerals: Many agricultural activities rely on minerals found in the soil which are essential for plant growth.