Question

A farmer plants corn in nutrient rich soil. The corn plants absorb nutrients from the soil in order to grow and perform life processes. After the corn plants mature, the farmer harvests the corn and sells it for human consumption. He continues to plant and harvest corn for many years without adding fertilizer. How will the continuous planting and harvesting of corn most likely affect the soil in which it is grown? A. The soil will become more fertile. B. The soil will begin producing its own fertilizer. C. The soil will change into igneous rock. D. The soil will become less fertile.

Answer 1

Continuous planting and harvesting of corn without replenishing the soil will make the soil less fertile over time due to nutrient depletion.

Step-by-step explanation:

The continuous planting and harvesting of corn without adding fertilizer will most likely affect the soil by making it less fertile. This is because corn plants absorb nutrients from the soil, which are necessary for their growth and life processes. When the corn is harvested, these nutrients are removed from the system, and if they are not replenished through fertilization or other means like crop rotation or fallowing, the soil's nutrient reserves will be gradually depleted.

Moreover, certain farming practices like no-till farming can help maintain or enhance soil fertility by reducing erosion and improving water retention. However, in the scenario described, the farmer does not augment the soil with new nutrients, resulting in a degradation of the soil's quality over time. Agricultural best practices, such as crop rotation, no-till farming, and the use of organic fertilizers, are crucial for maintaining soil health and long-term crop productivity.

Answer 2

Hello,

I believe the correct option is D.) The soil will become less fertile. B.) and C.) are out of the answer's options. I don't think A) is correct.


Faith xoxo