Factors Affecting Farming
Name two climatic factors that affect farming.
Temperature, rainfall
What are the two main types of farming in the world?
Subsistence farming and commercial farming
What is “night soil” in farming?
Human waste used as fertilizer
What is the main crop of extensive grain farming?
Wheat
Why is crop rotation important?
It restores soil fertility by alternating crops
Why are plains more suitable for farming than mountains?
Because they have fertile soil and good drainage
Why is intensive farming common in India?
Because of high population and small land holdings
Which type of farming uses crop rotation to maintain soil fertility?
Intensive farming
Which regions are famous for extensive grain farming?
Prairies of North America, Steppes of Eurasia, Pampas of Argentina, Downs of Australia
Why is commercial farming called capital-intensive?
Because it needs machines, fertilizers, pesticides, and money investment
Give one example of how human beings influence farming.
Social, economic, political factors or technical know-how
What is another name for shifting cultivation?
Slash-and-burn agriculture
Give one example of a crop grown in plantation farming.
Tea, coffee, cocoa, sugarcane, rubber, banana, etc.
Which farming practice is popular in North-west Europe and USA for vegetables and fruits?
Market gardening and horticulture
Why are refrigerated trucks used in market gardening?
To transport perishable goods quickly
Which soil type is required for most crops?
specific soil suited for the crop, e.g., alluvial for rice/wheat
Which type of farming uses both crops and livestock together?
Mixed farming
Which farming type produces mainly for sale and export?
Commercial farming
Name one country where dairy farming is a major activity.
New Zealand, Denmark, India, USA, etc.
Why is plantation farming usually managed by private companies?
Because it requires large capital, scientific methods, and export trade management
Explain how relief and drainage affect farming.
Plains and well-drained areas are better for farming than steep or waterlogged land
Why is plantation farming considered capital-intensive?
Because it requires fertilizers, pesticides, and scientific methods on a large scale
How is shifting cultivation practised?
By slashing/burning vegetation, farming for 2–3 years, then abandoning land
What is the difference between mixed farming and dairy farming?
Mixed farming combines crops + livestock; dairy farming focuses mainly on milk and dairy products
Why is intensive farming able to support a large population on small land?
Because it uses multiple cropping, irrigation, and fertilizers to increase yield