Study the picture of a centre-pivot irrigation system below and answer the questions that follow - NSC Agricultural Technology - Question 6 - 2024 - Paper 1

1. Cell Phone: Farmers can use cell phones to monitor and control irrigation remotely.

2. Tablet: Tablets serve as a portable option for managing irrigation system settings and data analysis.

1. Fertiliser Content: Consider using fertilisers with a high nutrient content to ensure effective application.

2. Particle Size: Avoid fertilisers with large particle sizes that may clog the irrigation system.

A farmer would prefer pump A over pump B when they need a pump that can operate without electrical power and can easily be moved around the irrigation field.

1. Pressure Requirements: The pump should meet the necessary pressure for effective water distribution.

2. Capacity of the Pump: Determine the flow rate and volume capacity to suit the irrigation needs.

3. Durability of the Pump: Ensure the pump is durable and suitable for the conditions of the irrigation field.

1. Rust Resistance: PVC pipes do not rust, making them more durable and reliable.

2. Lightweight: They are lighter in weight, which makes them easier to handle and install.

3. Flexibility: PVC pipes can be easily shaped and joined, facilitating better water flow.

To calculate the time it will take to empty the water source, we can use the formula:

Where:

• Volume of water = 72,000 litres
• Flow rate = 120 litres/minute

Now substituting in the values:

Thus, it will take 600 minutes to empty the water source.

1. Channel Drain: This type of drain collects and directs excess water away from buildings.

2. Slope Drain: A slope drain directs water from a higher elevation to a lower area, facilitating efficient drainage.

1. Distillation: A method that involves heating water to create steam, which is then cooled and condensed back into liquid, leaving impurities behind.

2. Reverse Osmosis: A filtration process that removes ions, unwanted molecules, and larger particles from drinking water by forcing it through a semipermeable membrane.

The distribution field consists of a narrow trench filled with crushed stone or gravel. This design allows for the efficient distribution of wastewater from the septic tank. As wastewater exits the tank, it is distributed evenly through perforated pipes within the trench, allowing for gradual absorption into the surrounding soil, which treats the wastewater effectively.

1. Contamination Risk: Septic tanks can harbor harmful pathogens and chemicals that can contaminate nearby drinking water.

2. Public Health Hazard: Contaminated water can pose serious health risks to humans and animals consuming the water, leading to potential disease outbreaks.

1. Precision Planting: Using VRT to adjust seed placement and density based on soil conditions for optimal crop growth.

2. Application of Fertilizers/Limes: VRT can ensure that the application rates are tailored to specific areas of the field to enhance growth while minimizing waste.