The property of soil that is least conducive to plant growth would be:
1. a large percent of humus content
2. a large number of soil organisms
3. a compacted soil
4. a soil with high porosity

The process of protein synthesis will be adversely affected by the deficiency of which of the following elements in plants despite adequate availability of nitrogen?
1. Potassium
2. Boron
3. Chlorine
4. Copper

Over-watering a plant is dangerous as it
1. leaches all essential minerals.
2. neutralizes the pH of the soil.
3. deprives the roots of oxygen.
4. supports the growth of root parasites.

Identify the incorrectly matched essential mineral nutrient in plants [Column I] with function [Column II]:

A symptom common to the deficiency of Ca, Mg, Cu and K in plants is:
1. Chlorosis
2. Inhibition of cell division
3. Necrosis
4. Delay in flowering

The mineral that is most likely to be leached from the soil in case of rain would be:
1. ${\mathrm{Mg}}^{++}$
2. ${\mathrm{H}}^{+}$
3. ${\mathrm{Ca}}^{++}$
4. ${\mathrm{NO}}^{3-}$

Majority of the nutrients that are essential for the growth and development of plants become available to the roots due to:
1. Microbial actions in the soil
2. Wet deposition from the atmosphere
3. Addition of fertilizers
4. Weathering and breakdown of rocks

To successfully grow a crop in an arid area, the best strategy would be:
1. ensuring an extensive irrigation system
2. using NPK fertilizers liberally
3. selecting crops adapted to arid areas
4. practicing shifting cultivation

A microorganism capable of growing without external sources of fixed nitrogen is called:
1. Diazotroph
2. Auxotroph
3. Prototroph
4. Mixotroph

An agriculture practice based on integration and harmonious mix of environmental health, economic profitability, and social equity is termed as:
1. hydroponics.
2. nutirent fixation.
3. genetic engineering.
4. sustainable agriculture.