WAEC Agricultural Science Past Questions And Answers (Objective and Theory)
Section A: Multiple Choice Questions
Question: What is the primary function of chlorophyll in plants?
A) Nutrient absorption
B) Photosynthesis
C) Water transport
D) Root development
Answer: B) Photosynthesis
Question: Which soil type has the best water retention capacity?
A) Sandy soil
B) Clay soil
C) Loamy soil
D) Peaty soil
Answer: C) Loamy soil
Question: What is the purpose of crop rotation in agriculture?
A) Pest control
B) Soil fertility management
C) Weed suppression
D) Water conservation
Answer: B) Soil fertility management
Question: Which gas is essential for the process of nitrogen fixation in leguminous plants?
A) Oxygen
B) Nitrogen
C) Carbon dioxide
D) Hydrogen
Answer: A) Oxygen
Question: What is the main function of the stomata in plant leaves?
A) Gas exchange
B) Photosynthesis
C) Water absorption
D) Nutrient transport
Answer: A) Gas exchange
Question: Which farming practice involves the cultivation of crops in stacked layers or vertically inclined surfaces?
A) Agroforestry
B) Hydroponics
C) Vertical farming
D) Precision farming
Answer: C) Vertical farming
Question: What is the primary purpose of using pesticides in agriculture?
A) Soil enrichment
B) Pest control
C) Weed suppression
D) Water conservation
Answer: B) Pest control
Question: Which of the following is a warm-season crop?
A) Wheat
B) Barley
C) Rice
D) Maize
Answer: D) Maize
Question: What is the function of mycorrhizae in plant roots?
A) Nitrogen fixation
B) Water absorption
C) Nutrient uptake
D) Photosynthesis
Answer: C) Nutrient uptake
Question: Which farming method involves the cultivation of different crops in a planned sequence on the same field?
A) Monoculture
B) Polyculture
C) Crop rotation
D) Alley cropping
Answer: C) Crop rotation
Question: What is the primary role of nitrogen in plant growth?
A) Enhancing root development
B) Synthesizing proteins
C) Facilitating water uptake
D) Promoting flower formation
Answer: B) Synthesizing proteins
Question: Which of the following is an example of a cash crop?
A) Wheat
B) Sorghum
C) Cotton
D) Lentils
Answer: C) Cotton
Question: What is the primary function of bees in agriculture?
A) Seed dispersal
B) Pollination
C) Pest control
D) Soil aeration
Answer: B) Pollination
Question: Which soil pH range is considered optimal for most crops?
A) Acidic (pH 4-5)
B) Neutral (pH 7)
C) Alkaline (pH 8-9)
D) Slightly acidic (pH 6-7)
Answer: D) Slightly acidic (pH 6-7)
Question: What is the primary purpose of cover cropping in agriculture?
A) Improving soil structure
B) Pest control
C) Weed suppression
D) Enhancing water retention
Answer: A) Improving soil structure
Question: Which of the following is a macronutrient essential for plant growth?
A) Iron
B) Zinc
C) Magnesium
D) Boron
Answer: C) Magnesium
Question: What is the primary benefit of using drip irrigation in farming?
A) Water conservation
B) Weed suppression
C) Increased nutrient absorption
D) Pest control
Answer: A) Water conservation
Question: In organic farming, what is the alternative to synthetic chemical fertilizers?
A) Green manure
B) Pesticides
C) Inorganic fertilizers
D) Herbicides
Answer: A) Green manure
Question: Which of the following is a leguminous crop?
A) Rice
B) Wheat
C) Soybean
D) Oats
Answer: C) Soybean
Question: What is the primary purpose of the plow in traditional agriculture?
A) Seed dispersal
B) Weed suppression
C) Soil tillage
D) Water conservation
Answer: C) Soil tillage
Section B: Theory Questions
Question: Explain the concept of sustainable agriculture and its importance.
Answer: Sustainable agriculture focuses on practices that maintain or enhance soil fertility, biodiversity, and ecological balance. It aims to meet the current needs of agriculture without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs. Importance lies in environmental conservation, long-term productivity, and resilience.
Question: Describe the process of nitrogen fixation in soil and its significance in plant nutrition.
Answer: Nitrogen fixation involves the conversion of atmospheric nitrogen into a form that plants can utilize. This is often facilitated by nitrogen-fixing bacteria. Significance includes increased nitrogen availability for plants, promoting growth, and reducing the need for synthetic nitrogen fertilizers.
Question: Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of genetically modified (GM) crops.
Answer: Advantages include increased crop yield, resistance to pests, and enhanced nutritional content. Disadvantages may involve concerns about environmental impact, biodiversity loss, and potential health risks.
Question: Explain the role of microorganisms in soil fertility and plant health.
Answer: Microorganisms contribute to soil fertility by decomposing organic matter, fixing nitrogen, and promoting nutrient availability. They also form symbiotic relationships with plant roots, aiding in nutrient uptake and disease resistance.
Question: Elaborate on the impact of climate change on agriculture and potential adaptation strategies.
Answer: Climate change can affect crop yields, water availability, and pest patterns. Adaptation strategies may include developing drought-resistant crops, improving water management, and implementing sustainable practices to mitigate the impact on agriculture.