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

Soil 100: Introduction To Soil Science Question Paper

Soil 100: Introduction To Soil Science

Course:Bachelor Of Science In Agriculture

Institution: Chuka University question papers

Exam Year:2013

CHUKA

UNIVERSITY

UNIVERSITY EXAMINATIONS

FIRST YEAR EXAMINATION FOR THE AWARD OF DEGREE OF
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN AGRICULTURE, NATURAL RESOURCES
AND ANIMAL SCIENCE

SOIL 100: INTRODUCTION TO SOIL SCIENCE

STREAMS: BSc. AGRIC, NARE, ANSC TIME: 2 HOURS

DAY/DATE: TUESDAY 7/8/2013 8.30 A.M. – 10.30 A.M.
INSTRUCTIONS:

ANSWER ALL QUESTIONS IN SECTION I AND ANY TWO IN SECTION II

SECTION I: (30 MARKS)

Q1. (a) What is cation exchange capacity? Briefly explain. [3 marks]

(b) Distinguish between loess and colluvium soils. [2 marks]

Q2. (a) A sample of soil weighs 150gms when moist and 110gms after oven drying
at 105-110oC. If it has a bulk density of 1.2g/cc, what is the percent water
of soil by volume? [2 marks]

(b) Assume a soil has a bulk density of 1.56mg/m3 and a particle density of
2.6mg/m3. Calculate the porosity of the soil and the portion of the soil
occupied by the solid particles. [3 marks]

(c) Explain the importance of terracing as a soil conservation measure. [3 marks]

Q3. (a) With an example briefly explain the special purpose surveys. [4 marks]

(b) Briefly explain four functions of water in relation to plant growth. [4 marks]

Q4. (a) Briefly describe the significance of topography in soil formation. [4 marks]

(b) Explain five factors which can lead to the destruction of soil tilth. [5 marks]
SECTION II: (40 MARKS)

Q5. (a) In reference to soil formation discuss the rock cycle. [15 marks]

(b) What is the importance of soil temperature in growth of any crop?
Briefly explain. [5 marks]

Q6. (a) Discuss the positive role of micro-organisms in soil and crop production.
[12 marks]

(b) Describe the soil characteristics important in agricultural production that
are affected by soil structure. [8 marks]

Q7. (a) Describe the physical weathering of rocks. [10 marks]

(b) Explain role of climate in soil formation. [10 marks]

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Soil 100: Introduction To Soil Science Question Paper

More Question Papers

Popular Exams