Environmental Studies · Biology

Soil Science and Fertilizers

1,537 Questions

Soil science focuses on soil formation, classification, and fertility management using fertilizers and organic amendments. Agricultural and environmental science exams heavily feature questions on biofertilizers, mycorrhiza, and phytoremediation. Practice these questions to build a strong understanding of soil nutrient cycles.

Phytoremediation techniquesOrganic soil amendmentsBiofertilizers and mycorrhizaNitrous oxide emissionsIn-situ soil remediationGreen manuring effects

Soil Science and Fertilizers Questions

Multiple choice

Which of the following is a process which neutralises soil acidity?

  1. Eutrophication

  2. Cover crop

  3. Liming

  4. Leaching

  5. Nitrification
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
C Correct answer
Explanation

Liming is the application of calcium and magnesium rich materials to soil in various forms, including marl, chalk, limestone, or hydrated lime. This neutralises soil acidity and increases activity of soil bacteria. However, oversupply may result in harm to plant life. Lime is a basic chemical and  the effect of it makes the soil more basic, thus making acidic soils neutral.

Multiple choice

Which of the following is a slow-release fertiliser used primarily as a source of phosphorus?

  1. Manure

  2. Alfalfa

  3. Sawdust

  4. Fish meal

  5. Bone meal
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
E Correct answer
Explanation

Bone meal is a mixture of finely and coarsely ground animal bones and slaughter-house waste products. It is used as an organic fertiliser for plants and as a nutritional supplement for animals. As a slow-release fertiliser, bone meal is primarily used as a source of phosphorus.

Multiple choice

Which of the following statements is wrong?

  1. Macronutrients are the nutrients required by plants in large amount.

  2. Micronutrients are the nutrients required by plants in small amount.

  3. Plant nutrients and organic matter in soil can be decreased by adding manures and fertilisers to the soil.

  4. Nutrients are supplied to plants by water, air and soil.
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
C Correct answer
Explanation

Plant nutrients and organic matter in soil can be increased by adding manures and fertilisers to the soil.

Multiple choice

Which of the following statements is not correct about manure?

  1. It cannot be easily made by using animal and plant waste.

  2. Organic matter in manure helps in increasing the water holding capacity of sandy soil.

  3. It is good for long term soil fertility.

  4. In clayey soils, the organic matter in manure helps in drainage and in avoiding water logging.
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
A Correct answer
Explanation

It cannot be easily made by using animal and plant waste. 

Multiple choice

Compost is classified under

  1. manures

  2. fertilizers

  3. pesticides

  4. weedicides
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
A Correct answer
Explanation

Compost is an organic material produced by the decomposition of plant and animal waste, which classifies it as a natural manure rather than a synthetic fertilizer.

Multiple choice

Which of the following statements is incorrect regarding fertilizers?

  1. Fertilizers are the inorganic salts prepared in factories.

  2. Excessive use of fertilizers makes the soil less fertile.

  3. Fertilizers have become a source of water pollution.

  4. Fertilizers provide a lot of humus to soil.
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
D Correct answer
Explanation

Fertilizers are inorganic chemical substances that provide specific nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. They do not provide humus, which is organic matter derived from decaying plant and animal material.