Soil Science & Agricultural Production Factors is one of 9 topics in the Grade 12 Agricultural Sciences CAPS syllabus, covered across 3 lessons on Study Vault. Below are real practice questions from this topic with full worked answers.
Sample practice questions
Easy
1. Which soil horizon is richest in organic matter and biological activity, and most important for plant growth?
The topsoil (A horizon)
The subsoil (B horizon)
The parent material (C horizon)
There is no difference between soil horizons
Answer: The topsoil (A horizon) — The topsoil (A horizon) is richest in organic matter and biological activity, making it the most important horizon for plant growth.
Easy
2. Which soil texture type generally has the best combination of drainage and water/nutrient-holding capacity, making it the most agriculturally desirable?
Loam
Pure sand
Pure clay
Gravel
Answer: Loam — Loam, a balanced mixture of sand, silt and clay, combines reasonably good drainage with good water- and nutrient-holding capacity, making it generally the most desirable agricultural soil texture.
Medium
3. Name the well-decomposed organic matter in soil that improves soil structure, water retention and nutrient supply.
Answer: humus — Humus is well-decomposed organic matter that improves soil structure, water retention and nutrient availability.
