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QUESTION 6: WATER MANAGEMENT (Start this question on a NEW page.) 6.1 The pictures below show TWO types of irrigation systems (A and B) - NSC Agricultural Technology - Question 6 - 2018 - Paper 1
Question 6
QUESTION 6: WATER MANAGEMENT (Start this question on a NEW page.) 6.1 The pictures below show TWO types of irrigation systems (A and B). State THREE advantages of... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:QUESTION 6: WATER MANAGEMENT (Start this question on a NEW page.) 6.1 The pictures below show TWO types of irrigation systems (A and B) - NSC Agricultural Technology - Question 6 - 2018 - Paper 1
Step 1
State THREE advantages of system A over system B.
Answer
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Ease of Installation: System A is less expensive to install compared to system B. This can lead to lower initial investment costs for farmers.
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Flexibility: It consists of sections that can be easily disconnected, allowing for adaptability depending on the needs of the crops and land layout.
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Low Energy Requirement: System A does not require electricity, making it more suitable for remote areas where power supply is inconsistent.
Step 2
Name THREE data sources that the irrigation management mechanism – smart controller – uses to determine local weather conditions.
Answer
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Soil Sensor: Measures the moisture level in the soil to optimize irrigation scheduling.
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Rain Sensors: Detects rainfall to prevent unnecessary irrigation and conserve water.
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Weather Station: Provides local weather data including temperature, humidity, and winds, aiding in effective irrigation management.
Step 3
Recommend what a farmer should consider before choosing a type of irrigation system for a piece of land.
Answer
Farmers should consider several factors before choosing an irrigation system:
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Size of the Area: The total area to be irrigated can dictate the type of system suitable for efficient water management.
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Shape of the Land: The terrain shape can influence how water is distributed and absorbed, impacting system choice.
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Water Availability: Understanding the sources and amount of water available is crucial for selecting the right system.
Step 4
NAME THREE instances where flood irrigation would be preferred over sprinkler irrigation.
Answer
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Abundant Water Supply: When there is a consistent and ample supply of water available.
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Cost Considerations: Flood irrigation systems are generally less expensive to establish and maintain compared to sprinkler systems.
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Topography: In landscapes with a gentle slope and good absorption, flood irrigation tends to be more effective.
Step 5
Identify the mistakes in the design drawing of the septic tank above.
Answer
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Inlet and Outlet Levels: The inlet should be positioned higher than the wall of the tank while the outlet should be lower to allow for proper flow.
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Access Covers: Access covers need to be clearly marked for maintenance and should not obstruct functionality.
Step 6
Name THREE items that must NOT be flushed down a septic tank drainage system.
Answer
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Non-biodegradable Materials: Items such as plastics cannot decompose and will disrupt the tank's function.
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Chemical Products: Disinfectants and bleaches can kill beneficial bacteria essential for the system's operation.
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Grease and Oils: These can create blockages and lead to inefficiencies in waste breakdown.
Step 7
What will happen in a septic tank drainage system if the bacteria are destroyed?
Answer
If the bacteria are destroyed, the septic system will cease to break down waste effectively. The tank will fill with waste and can lead to overflows or backups, compromising sanitation and potentially harming the environment.
Step 8
Name TWO factors that determine the cleaning of a septic tank.
Answer
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Amount of Waste: The daily output of waste affects how frequently the tank needs to be cleaned; higher output necessitates more frequent maintenance.
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Functioning of Bacteria: If the bacterial breakdown is inefficient, more frequent cleaning will be required.
Step 9
Calculate the flow rate (litres per minute) in a water-delivering system.
Answer
To calculate the flow rate, we use the formula:
ext{Flow rate} = rac{ ext{capacity}}{ ext{time}}Given:
- Capacity = 20 kℓ = 20,000 litres
- Time = 40 minutes
Calculating:
ext{Flow rate} = rac{20000 ext{ litres}}{40 ext{ minutes}} = 500 ext{ litres per minute}Step 10
Give ONE function of EACH of the following devices:
Answer
6.8.1 GPS: Pinpoints exact positioning up to one meter for precise agricultural practices.
6.8.2 GIS: Shows areas of under and over-watering, helping in efficient resource management.
6.8.3 VRT: Allows for variable rate technology in irrigation, enabling control over the application rate based on specific field conditions.
Step 11
Name TWO components of the whole house water filtering system that must be checked and replaced on a regular basis.
Answer
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Filter Elements/Cartridges: These need regular checking and replacement to maintain effective filtration.
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O-rings: These seals should be inspected periodically to prevent leaks and maintain system integrity.