1.
The modern definition of agriculture includes
Correct Answer
D. The deliberate domestication of plants and animals.
Explanation
The modern definition of agriculture includes the deliberate domestication of plants and animals. This means that agriculture involves intentionally cultivating and breeding plants and animals for human use and benefit. This definition encompasses practices such as selective breeding, crop cultivation, and animal husbandry, which are essential components of modern agricultural systems. The inclusion of this answer option signifies the importance of human intervention and control in the development and management of agricultural practices.
2.
The most practiced economic activity in the world is
Correct Answer
E. Intensive subsistence agriculture.
Explanation
Intensive subsistence agriculture is the correct answer because it refers to a type of farming where a small plot of land is intensively cultivated to produce enough food to sustain a family or village. This form of agriculture is widely practiced in densely populated regions of Asia, such as India and China, where land is limited and the population is high. It involves the use of labor-intensive methods, such as manual tilling and harvesting, and relies on traditional farming techniques. In contrast, commercial agriculture, manufacturing, and providing a service are economic activities that are more prevalent in developed countries and urban areas.
3.
Agriculture is affected by all of the following except
Correct Answer
E. All of the above.
Explanation
All of the options listed - cultural taboos, distance to the market, political policies, and level of economic development - can affect agriculture in some way. However, the correct answer is "all of the above" because it states that agriculture is not affected by any of these factors. This implies that none of these factors have an impact on agriculture, which is not accurate.
4.
All of the following are aspects of commercial agriculture except
Correct Answer
C. There is little relationship to other businesses.
Explanation
Commercial agriculture refers to the production of crops and livestock for sale, rather than for personal consumption. It involves large-scale farming operations that rely heavily on machinery for efficiency and productivity. The products produced are typically consumed off the farm, meaning they are sold and distributed to consumers through various channels. Additionally, commercial agriculture often requires a significant workforce, although only a small percentage of the overall workforce is directly engaged in agriculture. Finally, commercial farms tend to be large in size, often spanning hundreds of acres. However, there is a strong relationship between commercial agriculture and other businesses, as it involves the supply chain, transportation, processing, and marketing of agricultural products.
5.
The percentage of the labor force in the United States that works directly in agriculture is
Correct Answer
A. 2-5%
Explanation
The correct answer is 2-5%. This means that only a small percentage of the labor force in the United States is directly involved in agriculture. This can be attributed to advancements in technology and mechanization in the agricultural industry, which have reduced the need for manual labor. Additionally, the growth of other sectors, such as manufacturing and services, has provided alternative employment opportunities for the workforce.
6.
Subsistence agriculture dominates in
Correct Answer
A. Less developed countries.
Explanation
Subsistence agriculture refers to a type of farming where farmers produce crops and raise livestock primarily for their own consumption, rather than for sale in the market. This type of agriculture is commonly found in less developed countries where the majority of the population is engaged in small-scale farming to meet their basic needs. In contrast, more developed countries tend to have advanced agricultural practices and rely more on commercial farming for both domestic consumption and export. Therefore, the correct answer is less developed countries.
7.
All of the following are types of subsistence agriculture except
Correct Answer
B. Truck farming.
Explanation
Truck farming refers to the practice of growing fruits and vegetables for sale in local markets. It is a type of commercial agriculture, where crops are grown on a large scale and primarily for profit. On the other hand, subsistence agriculture focuses on producing enough food to meet the needs of the farmer and their family, with little surplus for trade. Pastoral nomadism, shifting cultivation, swidden agriculture, and intensive rice farming are all examples of subsistence agriculture, as they involve the production of food primarily for self-sufficiency rather than commercial purposes.
8.
Humans survived prior to the invention of agriculture by engaging in
Correct Answer
B. Hunting and gathering.
Explanation
The correct answer is hunting and gathering. Before the invention of agriculture, humans relied on hunting animals and gathering wild plants for their survival. They would hunt animals for meat and gather fruits, nuts, and edible plants from the environment. This lifestyle allowed them to adapt to different environments and move around in search of food. Agriculture later emerged as a more reliable food production system, leading to settled communities and the development of civilizations.
9.
According to Carl Sauer, what best characterized the invention of plant domestication?
Correct Answer
D. All of the above.
Explanation
According to Carl Sauer, the invention of plant domestication was characterized by a gradual process. Additionally, a number of independent hearths were established, and these hearths developed in areas with high biodiversity. Therefore, the correct answer is "All of the above."
10.
All of the following were vegetative planting (root crop) hearths ​except
Correct Answer
C. Southwest Asia.
Explanation
The correct answer is Southwest Asia. This is because the question asks for the exception among the given options, and all of the other options (West Africa, Southeast Asia, Peruvian Highlands) were vegetative planting (root crop) hearths. Therefore, Southwest Asia is the correct answer as it is the only option that does not fit the criteria.
11.
Which combination of animals was domesticated in Southwest Asia?
Correct Answer
D. Sheep and goat.
Explanation
Sheep and goats were domesticated in Southwest Asia. This is supported by archaeological evidence that shows the presence of these animals in the region thousands of years ago. Domestication of sheep and goats provided a reliable source of meat, milk, and wool for early human societies in Southwest Asia, and they played a crucial role in the development of agriculture and settled communities in the region.
12.
What was the advantage of domesticating animals?
Correct Answer
E. All of the above.
Explanation
The advantage of domesticating animals was that they provided various resources and services to humans. Animals could be used for their meat, milk, furs, and skins, which were valuable for food, clothing, and shelter. Additionally, domesticated animals could be trained and used as beasts of burden, assisting humans in tasks such as transportation and agriculture. Therefore, all of the given options are correct, as they highlight the different advantages of domesticating animals.
13.
________________ did not contain an agricultural hearth.
Correct Answer
A. Europe.
Explanation
Europe did not contain an agricultural hearth. An agricultural hearth refers to a region where the cultivation of crops and the domestication of animals first began. In the case of Europe, it did not have a specific region where agriculture originated, unlike other continents like Asia, Africa, and the Americas. Europe's agricultural development was influenced by ideas and practices brought by migrants and colonizers from other regions.
14.
Europeans evolved from farming a single field in early medieval times to rotating crops into how many different sections or fields by the 18th century?
Correct Answer
D. Four.
Explanation
In early medieval times, Europeans practiced a system of farming called strip farming, where they cultivated a single field. However, by the 18th century, they had adopted a more advanced agricultural technique known as crop rotation. This involved dividing their land into four different sections or fields and rotating the crops grown in each section every year. Crop rotation helped improve soil fertility, prevent the spread of diseases, and increase crop yields. Therefore, the correct answer is four.
15.
What conclusion can one make with regard to the connection between the second agricultural revolution and the Industrial Revolution?
Correct Answer
E. A and B only.
Explanation
The second agricultural revolution and the Industrial Revolution are connected through advancements in agricultural production and technological advancements. The second agricultural revolution brought about innovations such as the use of new farming techniques, improved crop rotation, and the development of new tools and machinery. These advancements increased agricultural productivity, which in turn helped to feed the expanding population during the Industrial Revolution. Additionally, technological advancements, such as the invention of new machinery like the seed drill and the use of steam power, further increased agricultural production. Therefore, the conclusion that can be made is that both advancements in agricultural production and technological advancements played a role in connecting the second agricultural revolution with the Industrial Revolution.
16.
The Enclosure Movement altered the geography and agricultural practices of rural England by
Correct Answer
D. A and B only.
Explanation
The Enclosure Movement in rural England brought about significant changes in geography and agricultural practices. One of these changes was the consolidation of oddly shaped fields, which made farming more efficient and easier to manage. This allowed for the use of more farm machinery, further increasing productivity. However, it also resulted in the displacement of farmers from their lands, as larger landowners enclosed common lands for their own use. Therefore, the correct answer is A and B only, as the Enclosure Movement both consolidated oddly shaped fields and encouraged the use of more farm machinery.
17.
Which statement regarding agricultural region(s) with respect to Whittlessey's Agricultural Regions map is no longer applicable?
Correct Answer
A. Plantation agriculture doesn't exist in North America anymore.
Explanation
The statement "Plantation agriculture doesn't exist in North America anymore" is no longer applicable because plantation agriculture still exists in certain parts of North America, particularly in the southern states such as Louisiana, Mississippi, and South Carolina. Plantation agriculture involves large-scale farming of cash crops such as cotton, sugar, and tobacco, typically using slave labor. While the practice has declined significantly since the abolition of slavery, there are still areas where plantation agriculture continues to be practiced.
18.
Shifting cultivation is a threatened form of agriculture because of
Correct Answer
D. A and B only.
Explanation
Shifting cultivation is a threatened form of agriculture because of competition for resources from logging and mining companies as well as population increase. Logging and mining companies often clear large areas of land, destroying the natural habitat and resources required for shifting cultivation. Additionally, as the population increases, there is a higher demand for land and resources, leading to the encroachment on shifting cultivation areas. Therefore, both competition from logging and mining companies and population increase pose threats to shifting cultivation.
19.
All of the following are characteristics of shifting cultivation except
Correct Answer
D. Primogentric land ownership dominates shifting cultivation societies.
Explanation
Shifting cultivation is a type of agricultural practice where farmers clear land, grow crops for a few years, and then move on to a new area once the soil nutrients are depleted. They usually return to the same area after a long period of time, typically around twenty years. The practice is characterized by farmers living in small villages and using slash and burn techniques to clear the land. However, the statement about primogentric land ownership dominating shifting cultivation societies is not true. Shifting cultivation is typically practiced in societies where communal land ownership is more common, rather than individual ownership based on primogeniture.
20.
The process by which people engaged in shifting cultivation plant crops of varying heights in order to protect lower crops is called
Correct Answer
C. Intertillage.
Explanation
Intertillage is the correct answer because it refers to the process of planting crops of varying heights in order to protect lower crops. This technique is commonly used in shifting cultivation, where farmers clear small areas of land and rotate their crops to allow the soil to regenerate. By planting taller crops alongside shorter ones, the taller crops provide shade and protection for the lower crops, helping to prevent weed growth and conserve moisture in the soil.
21.
Pastoral nomads predominate in
Correct Answer
E. A and B only.
Explanation
The correct answer is "A and B only" because pastoral nomads are known to predominantly inhabit both semi-arid deserts and deserts. They rely on the availability of grazing land for their livestock, which is more abundant in these arid regions. Subtropical grasslands and tropical rainforests are not suitable for their nomadic lifestyle as they do not provide the necessary resources for their livestock.
22.
Herders who seasonally move their animals between mountain pastures and lowland valleys practice
Correct Answer
A. Transhumance.
Explanation
The correct answer is transhumance. Transhumance refers to the practice of herders moving their animals between mountain pastures and lowland valleys seasonally. This allows the animals to graze on fresh pastures and ensures their survival during different seasons. It is a traditional and sustainable way of managing livestock and utilizing different ecological resources.
23.
Pastoral nomads do not typically herd
Correct Answer
A. Cattle.
Explanation
Pastoral nomads are a type of nomadic people who rely on herding animals for their livelihood. They move from one place to another in search of grazing land for their animals. While they may herd llamas, sheep, goats, and camels, cattle is not typically included in their herding practices. Therefore, the correct answer is cattle.
24.
Pastoral nomads potentially contribute to desertification by
Correct Answer
A. Overgrazing.
Explanation
Pastoral nomads potentially contribute to desertification by overgrazing. Overgrazing occurs when animals graze excessively on the vegetation in an area, leading to the destruction of plant cover and soil erosion. This can result in the expansion of desert areas and the degradation of land, contributing to desertification. Poor cultivation techniques may also contribute to land degradation, but the primary factor mentioned in the question is overgrazing. Therefore, the correct answer is overgrazing.
25.
Another term for pastoral nomadism is
Correct Answer
E. A and B only.
Explanation
Pastoral nomadism refers to a type of subsistence agriculture where people rely on the herding of livestock as their primary means of sustenance. This lifestyle involves constantly moving with the animals in search of fresh grazing land. Therefore, the correct answer "A and B only" is appropriate as it includes both "extensive subsistence agriculture" and "nomadic herding," which accurately describe the practice of pastoral nomadism. The other options, "livestock ranching" and "grain agriculture," do not encompass the full scope of pastoral nomadism.
26.
Extensive subsistence agriculture predominates in
Correct Answer
C. Semi-arid deserts.
Explanation
The correct answer is semi-arid deserts. Extensive subsistence agriculture refers to a type of farming where large areas of land are used to produce enough food for the farmer's family. Semi-arid deserts are characterized by low rainfall and limited water availability, making it difficult to sustain agriculture. Therefore, extensive subsistence agriculture is less likely to be practiced in semi-arid deserts compared to other regions such as tropical rain forests or sub-tropical areas where there is more water and fertile land available.
27.
Technology essential for intensive subsistence agriculture is
Correct Answer
A. Irrigation.
Explanation
The correct answer is irrigation. Intensive subsistence agriculture refers to a farming system that requires high inputs of labor and resources to produce enough food for a small area of land. Irrigation is essential in this type of agriculture as it involves supplying water to crops through artificial means, compensating for insufficient rainfall and ensuring optimal growth and yield. Precision agriculture techniques, biotechnology, and advancements in pesticide research can also be beneficial in intensive subsistence agriculture, but irrigation is the fundamental technology required for this farming system.
28.
What activity typifies extensive commercial agriculture?
Correct Answer
E. A and B only.
Explanation
The correct answer is A and B only. This is because both wheat and grain farming and livestock ranching are examples of extensive commercial agriculture. Extensive commercial agriculture refers to large-scale farming practices that involve the cultivation of a single crop or the raising of livestock over a vast area of land. Both wheat and grain farming and livestock ranching require extensive land and are typically carried out for commercial purposes. Banana plantations in Latin America and mixed crop and livestock operations in Iowa, on the other hand, may involve smaller-scale farming practices or a combination of different crops and livestock.
29.
What best characterizes intensive commercial agriculture?
Correct Answer
E. All of the above.
Explanation
Intensive commercial agriculture is characterized by the dominance of commercial agriculture in More Developed Countries (MDCs), the decrease in profit margins due to globalization and competition, the need for farmers to specialize in order to stay competitive, and their participation in a complex and highly integrated system called agribusiness.
30.
Which region is not a major dairy producing area?
Correct Answer
E. Southeast U.S.
Explanation
The answer is Southeast U.S. because the question asks for a region that is not a major dairy producing area, and all the other options (Southeast Canada, Northeastern U.S., Southern California, and Northwestern Europe) are known for their significant dairy production.
31.
Dairy operations locate on the suburban fringe of metropolitan areas because
Correct Answer
A. Access to market is greater.
Explanation
Dairy operations locate on the suburban fringe of metropolitan areas because access to the market is greater. Being closer to the metropolitan areas allows dairy farmers to easily transport their products to consumers, reducing transportation costs and ensuring fresher products. Additionally, being in proximity to urban areas provides dairy farmers with a larger customer base and potential for higher demand for their products.
32.
Dairy farmers specialize in other products rather then fresh milk because
Correct Answer
B. They are located outside the milkshed.
Explanation
Dairy farmers specialize in other products rather than fresh milk because they are located outside the milkshed. The milkshed refers to the region where milk can be produced and transported to the market at a low cost. If dairy farmers are located outside this region, it becomes more expensive and inefficient to transport the milk, resulting in lower profit margins. Therefore, they choose to specialize in other products that are more viable in their location.
33.
The most widely produced grains in the world are
Correct Answer
A. Wheat, rice, and maize.
Explanation
The correct answer is wheat, rice, and maize. These three grains are the most widely produced in the world. Wheat is a staple crop in many countries and is used to make various food products. Rice is a major food source for a large portion of the global population, particularly in Asia. Maize, also known as corn, is widely cultivated for both human consumption and animal feed. Together, these three grains play a crucial role in global food production and supply.
34.
The most important large-scale commercial wheat producing countries in the world include all of the following except
Correct Answer
C. Switzerland.
Explanation
The question asks for the country that is not one of the most important large-scale commercial wheat producing countries in the world. The correct answer is Switzerland. While the other options (U.S., Ukraine, Argentina, and Australia) are all known for their significant wheat production, Switzerland is not a major player in the global wheat market. It is more commonly associated with other industries such as finance, tourism, and manufacturing.
35.
What accounts for dramatic increased yields of what in developed countries since the 1950's?
Correct Answer
E. All of the above.
Explanation
The dramatic increase in yields of crops in developed countries since the 1950s can be attributed to a combination of factors. The increased use of machinery has facilitated more efficient and faster farming practices, leading to higher yields. The use of pesticides has helped control pests and diseases that can damage crops, further enhancing yields. Additionally, the increased use of fertilizers has provided essential nutrients to the soil, promoting plant growth and increasing yields. Lastly, the development of improved seed varieties with higher yield potential has also contributed to the overall increase in crop yields. Therefore, all of the mentioned factors have played a role in the significant increase in yields.
36.
The country that produces the most maize in the world is
Correct Answer
B. U.S.
Explanation
The correct answer is the U.S. The U.S. is the largest producer of maize in the world. It has a favorable climate and extensive agricultural land, which allows for high production levels. Additionally, the U.S. has advanced agricultural technology and infrastructure, further contributing to its dominance in maize production.
37.
The area in Canada most associated with grain farming is
Correct Answer
D. The Prairie Provincies
Explanation
The Prairie Provinces, which include Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba, are the areas in Canada most associated with grain farming. These provinces have vast expanses of fertile land and a climate that is conducive to growing grains such as wheat, barley, and canola. The flat terrain and rich soil make it ideal for large-scale agricultural production, and these provinces are known as the "breadbasket of Canada." The Maritime Provinces, Ontario, the Northwest Territories, and British Columbia have different geographical features and climates that are not as suitable for grain farming.
38.
Pastoral nomads and livestock ranchers both
Correct Answer
E. Operate most efficiently in similar climates
Explanation
Pastoral nomads and livestock ranchers operate most efficiently in similar climates. This is because both rely on the availability of suitable grazing land and water sources for their livestock. In similar climates, there is a higher likelihood of finding adequate pasture and water resources, which allows them to maintain their livestock and ensure their productivity. Operating in different climates may pose challenges such as scarcity of resources or unsuitable conditions for livestock, leading to decreased efficiency and profitability. Therefore, operating in similar climates is beneficial for both pastoral nomads and livestock ranchers.
39.
What advantages do cattle feedlots have over traditional methods of livestock ranching?
Correct Answer
E. All of the above.
Explanation
Feedlots have several advantages over traditional methods of livestock ranching. Firstly, they combine multiple steps in the meat packing industry in one location, which increases efficiency and streamlines the process. Secondly, feedlots are more efficient at adding weight to cattle, allowing them to reach market weight faster. This results in higher productivity and faster turnaround time. Additionally, feedlots reduce transportation costs of both live cattle and the finished product, as everything is centralized in one location. Therefore, all of the given options are advantages of cattle feedlots over traditional methods of livestock ranching.
40.
Mediterranean agriculture products include
Correct Answer
E. All of the above
Explanation
The correct answer is "all of the above" because grapes, olives, dates, and lemons are all agricultural products commonly grown in the Mediterranean region. These products thrive in the Mediterranean climate, which is characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters. The region's fertile soil, ample sunshine, and suitable temperatures make it ideal for cultivating these crops. Grapes are used for wine production, olives for olive oil, dates as a sweet fruit, and lemons for culinary purposes and as a source of vitamin C.
41.
In Mediterranean agriculture farmers derive most of their income from
Correct Answer
D. Fruits and vegtables
Explanation
In Mediterranean agriculture, farmers derive most of their income from fruits and vegetables. This is because the Mediterranean region has a favorable climate and fertile soil that supports the growth of a wide variety of fruits and vegetables. These crops are in high demand due to their nutritional value, taste, and versatility in various cuisines. Additionally, the Mediterranean diet, which emphasizes the consumption of fruits and vegetables, has gained popularity worldwide, further increasing the demand for these agricultural products.
42.
Market gardening farms are located close to large urban areas because
Correct Answer
E. All of the above
Explanation
Market gardening farms are located close to large urban areas because of several reasons. Firstly, expensive land costs force farmers to grow crops with a higher profit margin in order to make a profit. Secondly, the highly perishable nature of their crops requires them to be close to the market to ensure freshness and minimize spoilage. Additionally, transport costs are high due to the special handling requirements of these crops, making it more practical to be located near urban areas. Lastly, farmers in this type of farming often need large amounts of capital for specialized machinery, which can be more easily obtained in urban areas. Therefore, all of the above reasons contribute to the proximity of market gardening farms to large urban areas.
43.
What is the best reason why market gardening farms grow highly perishable fruits and vegtables?
Correct Answer
C. Farms are located close to urban centeres
Explanation
Market gardening farms grow highly perishable fruits and vegetables because they are located close to urban centers. This proximity allows for quick and efficient transportation of the produce to the consumers, ensuring that the fruits and vegetables reach the market while still fresh. Being close to urban centers also reduces transportation costs and minimizes the time between harvest and sale, maximizing the shelf life and quality of the perishable produce.
44.
Horticulture could potentially include
Correct Answer
D. All of the above
Explanation
Horticulture is the practice of cultivating plants for food, medicinal purposes, and aesthetic appeal. It encompasses various agricultural techniques, including Mediterranean agriculture, market gardening, and truck farming. Mediterranean agriculture refers to the cultivation of crops in regions with a Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Market gardening involves the intensive production of fruits, vegetables, and flowers for sale in local markets. Truck farming, on the other hand, focuses on growing high-value crops on a small scale for direct selling to consumers or restaurants. Therefore, all of the options mentioned - Mediterranean agriculture, market gardening, and truck farming - are potential components of horticulture.
45.
Another name for truck farming is
Correct Answer
E. All of the above
Explanation
Truck farming is a type of agriculture that involves the cultivation of fruits, vegetables, and flowers on a small scale for local markets. It is also known as specialty farming because it focuses on specific crops rather than a wide range of agricultural products. Additionally, it is referred to as market gardening because the produce is typically sold directly to consumers at farmers' markets or through other local channels. The term commercial gardening is used to emphasize the business aspect of truck farming, as it involves the production of crops for profit. Finally, intensive commercial agriculture is another name for truck farming because it requires intensive labor and high input of resources to maximize productivity. Therefore, all of the given options are alternative names for truck farming.
46.
Commercial agriculture practiced in the tropics and subtropics is called
Correct Answer
C. Plantation agriculture
Explanation
Plantation agriculture is the correct answer because it refers to the large-scale cultivation of a single crop, typically for export, in tropical or subtropical regions. This type of agriculture involves the establishment of large estates or plantations where crops such as sugarcane, coffee, tea, bananas, or rubber are grown. Plantation agriculture often relies on cheap labor, and the crops are usually destined for international markets rather than local consumption. This form of agriculture has historically been associated with colonialism and has had significant social, economic, and environmental impacts in the regions where it is practiced.
47.
Most plantation operations are found in
Correct Answer
E. All of the above
Explanation
The correct answer is "all of the above" because plantation operations are found in Latin America, Sub-Saharan Africa, Southeast Asia, and South Asia. These regions have favorable climates and conditions for growing crops such as coffee, cocoa, tea, rubber, palm oil, and sugarcane. Plantations in these areas contribute significantly to the global production of these commodities.
48.
In upland areas where plantation is present, what are the two most common crops grown?
Correct Answer
C. Tea and coffee
Explanation
In upland areas where plantation is present, the two most common crops grown are tea and coffee. These crops are well-suited to the climate and terrain of upland areas, and they are also in high demand globally. Tea and coffee plantations in upland areas can be profitable and provide a significant source of income for farmers in these regions.
49.
Which of the following is not considered a luxury crop?
Correct Answer
C. Banana
Explanation
Banana is not considered a luxury crop because it is widely consumed and affordable for most people. Luxury crops are typically expensive and consumed by a smaller, more affluent population. Coffee, tea, cacao, and tobacco are all considered luxury crops because they are often associated with higher prices and are consumed by a more niche market.
50.
How have globalization and improved transportation links changed the geography of production areas for products such as apples, grapes, and fresh cut flowers?
Correct Answer
E. All of the above
Explanation
Globalization and improved transportation links have led to changes in the geography of production areas for products such as apples, grapes, and fresh cut flowers. Farmers now seek out areas with the lowest production costs, which can be found in Least Developed Countries (LDCs) due to lower labor and land costs. North American farmers no longer have a competitive advantage all year as production areas have become more competitive globally. Additionally, Southern hemisphere producers have increased their production of these items, further impacting the geography of production. Therefore, all of the given options are correct explanations for the changes in production areas.