Name: John Lester G.

Alforte Date: 02-14-2023

Year/Section: BSA 3A ANSCI Subject: Water Irrigation and Management

Module 3 Post Test

1.d 26.b
2.a 27.e
3.b 28.d
4.a 29.c
5.b 30.b
6.a 31.e
7.c 32.a
8.d 33.e
9.a 34.d
10.b 35.d
11.d 36.c
12.c 37.c
13.b 38.a
14.b 39.b
15.c 40.d
16.d 41.b
17.c 42.c
18.b 43.c
19.b 44.b
20.a 45.a
21.b 46.d
22.a 47.e
23.c 48.c
24.e 49.b
25. a 50.c
 ESSAY
1. Why is organic matter important for crop production?
Organic matter is important for crop production for several reasons; Soil fertility, Soil structure,
Soil health, Soil stability, and Climate change mitigation. First, the soil fertility, Organic matter acts as a
natural fertilizer by providing essential nutrients to crops, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
This can help to maintain or improve soil fertility and reduce the need for chemical fertilizers. Secondly,
the soil structure, Organic matter helps to improve soil structure by increasing its water-holding
capacity, aeration, and drainage. This can result in better root development and more efficient water
use by crops, leading to increased yields.
Also, the soil health, Organic matter is a key component of soil health, as it supports a diverse
community of soil microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungi, which play important roles in nutrient
cycling and disease suppression. Then, the soil stability, Organic matter helps to bind soil particles
together, which reduces erosion and improves soil stability. This is especially important in areas with
heavy rains or strong winds, which can cause soil to erode and impact crop productivity. Lastly, the
climate change mitigation, Organic matter acts as a carbon sink, helping to reduce the amount of carbon
dioxide in the atmosphere. This is important for mitigating the impacts of climate change, as carbon
dioxide is a greenhouse gas that contributes to global warming.
In summary, organic matter is crucial for maintaining soil fertility, structure, health, stability, and
for mitigating the impacts of climate change. By promoting these important soil properties, organic
matter can help to ensure long-term productivity and sustainability in crop production.
2. The pore space of soil suitable for crop production ranges from 20 to 25%. Why?, what will be
the expected result if the pore space is only `10% or less and what will be the expected result if
the pore space is more than say 30%?
The pore space in soil refers to the volume of spaces between soil particles that are filled with
air and water. The pore space of soil suitable for crop production typically ranges from 20 to 25%
because this range provides the ideal balance between air and water for optimal plant growth.
If the pore space is only 10% or less, the soil is likely to be compacted and have poor aeration.
This can limit the exchange of air and CO2 between the soil and atmosphere, which can have negative
effects on plant root development, nutrient uptake, and overall plant health. Additionally, compacted
soils with low pore space can reduce water infiltration and increase runoff, leading to poor water
retention and drought stress for crops.
On the other hand, if the pore space is more than 30%, the soil may be too loose and have poor
water-holding capacity. This can lead to rapid water loss through excessive drainage and evaporation,
which can result in water stress for crops. Additionally, soils with high pore space may have reduced
stability and be more prone to erosion, which can further impact crop productivity.
In summary, the pore space of soil suitable for crop production ranges from 20 to 25% because
this range provides the best balance between air and water for optimal plant growth and soil health.
3. If you don’t have a moisture content tester, how would you know or estimate the moisture
content of the soil in your farm?
 If you don't have a moisture content tester, there are several simple methods you can use to
estimate the moisture content of soil in your farm. Hand squeeze method, this involves taking a handful
of soil and squeezing it in your palm. If the soil crumbles easily, it is likely to be dry. If it sticks together, it
is likely to be moist. If you can form a ball with the soil and it holds its shape, it is likely to be too wet.
Finger test, this involves inserting your finger into the soil and feeling for its moisture content. If the soil
feels dry and crumbly, it is likely to be low in moisture. If the soil feels cool and moist, it is likely to be
adequate in moisture. If the soil feels wet and sticky, it is likely to be too wet. Lastly, dry/wet feel
method, this involves taking a small amount of soil and feeling its texture. If the soil feels dry and gritty,
it is likely to be low in moisture. If the soil feels moist and sticky, it is likely to be adequate in moisture. If
the soil feels very wet and slimy, it is likely to be too wet.
Keep in mind that these methods are only rough estimates and are subject to error. For more
accurate measurements, it is best to use a moisture content tester or to have the soil tested by a
laboratory.
4. Saturation means all pore spaces are filled with water. How do saturated soil affects growth of
upland crops like vegetables and fruit trees?
Saturated soil can negatively affect the growth of upland crops like vegetables and fruit trees
because it can lead to reduced oxygen availability in the soil, which is essential for root respiration and
nutrient uptake. Excess water can also result in the leaching of nutrients and make the soil anaerobic,
creating an environment that is conducive to the growth of harmful microorganisms that can damage
plant roots. Saturated soil can also lead to waterlogging, which can limit root growth and cause root
decay, stunted growth, and in severe cases, plant death.
5. Why are soil colloids important for crop production?
Soil colloids are important for crop production because they play a crucial role in maintaining
soil fertility and providing nutrients to plants. Soil colloids, which are tiny particles with a high surface
area, can attract and hold onto nutrients such as potassium, calcium, and magnesium, making them
available for plant uptake. They can also hold onto water, which is important for maintaining soil
moisture levels for plant growth. In addition, soil colloids can help to buffer the pH of the soil, which is
important for ensuring that plants can take up nutrients effectively. Overall, the presence of soil colloids
in agricultural soils is essential for ensuring that crops have access to the nutrients and water they need
for healthy growth and productivity.