Get premium membership and access revision papers, questions with answers as well as video lessons.

Got a question or eager to learn? Discover limitless learning on WhatsApp now - Start Now!

Soil 212: Soil Biology Question Paper

Soil 212: Soil Biology

Course:Bachelor Of Science In Agriculture

Institution: Chuka University question papers

Exam Year:2013

CHUKA

UNIVERSITY

UNIVERSITY EXAMINATIONS

SECOND YEAR EXAMINATION FOR THE AWARD OF
DEGREE OF BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN AGRICULTURE

SOIL 212: SOIL BIOLOGY

STREAMS: BSC (AGRIC) Y2S2 TIME: 2 HOURS

DAY/DATE: WEDNESDAY 14/8/2013 11.30 AM – 1.30 PM
INSTRUCTIONS:

1. The paper contains section A and B
2. Answer all questions in section A and any two from section B
3. Marks for each question are indicated in parenthesis ()
4. Total marks is 70

SECTION A: 30 MARKS

1. Define the following terms; [4 Marks]

(i) Biodegradation
(ii) Stenothermophilic
(iii) Oligotrophic
(iv) Amensalism

2. (a) List characteristics of prokaryotes and eukaryotes. [6 Marks]

(b) Explain why actinomycets are considered to be a transitional group between bacteria and fungi. [4 Marks]

3. (a) Describe briefly the role of bacteria in soil fertility maintenance. [6 Marks]

(b) Explain how soil acidity and cultural practices affect the population of bacteria in the soil. [4 Marks]

4. Explain organic matter decomposition diagrammatically. [6 Marks]

SECTION B: 40 MARKS

5. (a) Define the term mycorrhizae. [2 Marks]

(b) Distinguish between ecto and endo mycorrhizae. [6 Marks]

(c) Discuss 3 mechanisms of phosphorus solubilization. [12 Marks]

6. (a) Describe briefly the factors that affect pesticide persistence in soils.
[6 Marks]

(b) ‘Without microbial activities in the soil, modern agriculture with its high input of agrochemicals would lead to environmental hazards.’ Discuss this statement. [14 Marks]

7. (a) Explain the differences between nitrification and denitrification process.
[4 Marks]

(b) Show the steps and microorganisms involved in each of the above processes. [8 Marks]

(c) Describe conditions necessary for denitrification and nitrification to occur in the soil. [8 Marks]

______________________________________________________________________________

Soil 212: Soil Biology Question Paper

More Question Papers

Popular Exams