Page 38 - SCERT Kerala State Syllabus 8th Standard Basic Science Textbooks English Medium Part 1_Neat
P. 38
Crises in the agricultural sector
What are the obstacles faced by farmers today?
cost of
production crop lack of
fall in loss
space
price
environmental
destruction and
climate health issues
change
exploitation by
middle men
Fig 3.1
Prepare a note using the indicators in the picture and by adding more
information.
Don’t you think that many problems can be overcome if the approach
to agriculture is made scientific? Let us examine the possibilities to
overcome each issue.
Discuss the description given below based on the indicators. Write your
inferences in the science diary.
Fertile soil, the basis of food security
About 20 different elements are required for the proper growth of
plants. They are known as essential elements. Carbon, hydrogen,
oxygen, nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, sulphur etc., are examples
of essential elements.
These elements are made naturally available in the soil through
decomposition by microorganisms.
Haven’t you learnt the advantages of growing leguminous plants in
fields?Besides this,the fertility of the soil can be improved through
the application of fertilizers too. The pH of the soil is also an important
factor that influences the growth of the plants. The presence of elements
in the soil and the pH value can be identified by soil testing. Organisms
like bacteria, fungi, algae, termite, earthworm etc., help to increase
soil fertility.
Basic Science VIII 37
Basic Science VIII 37
