Question

Which statement provides the best introduction to the passage? . Carver, one of America's most famous agricultural scientists, is known for his research of crop rotation. Carver is also famous for his research work on peanuts, as he found many practical uses for them. He also emphasized planting peanuts to restore nutrients to the soil. Carver turned the southern states from cotton-growing farmlands to multi-crop farmlands. Farmers were able to use their crops in various profitable ways with the help of his discoveries. They were able to have better farms and happier homes because they had a lot of food. Also, the farmers were able to sell their surplus products to earn extra cash.

Answer 1

The best introduction to the passage highlights the historical importance of crop rotation, the way it contributes to soil nutrient replenishment, especially nitrogen levels, and its role in the agricultural advancements led by scientists like Carver.

Step-by-step explanation:

Crop Rotation and Its Historical Significance

The introduction of crop rotation has a long history, vital for maintaining soil fertility and sustainability in agriculture. Early agricultural societies in Europe understood the importance of crop rotation to rebuild soils after intensive planting. Indeed, this practice was significant in allowing farmers to continue producing without leaving land fallow, which was especially crucial as the need to feed a growing urban industrial worker population increased.

Crop rotation often involves alternating between different types of crops, such as planting a field with corn (a cereal crop) and then following with soybeans (a legume) in the subsequent season. The primary advantage of this rotation lies in the nitrogen-fixing ability of legumes, which helps replenish soil nutrients that cereals deplete. In essence, legumes help maintain soil nitrogen levels, creating a more sustainable agricultural environment.

Agriculture has evolved significantly over time, with crops like corn leading to the emergence of seed companies and a shift in agricultural practices. Agricultural scientists, such as Carver, greatly contributed to these advances. He encouraged crop diversification, which turned the southern states from cotton-only farmlands to multi-crop systems, thereby enhancing farm sustainability and productivity.