(i)

Micronutrients in the soil

1. Chloride
2. Iron
3. Boron
4. Copper
5. Nickel

(ii)

Distinction between broadcasting and side dressing methods of fertilizer application

Broadcasting methods of fertiizer application involved the use of hand to spread the fertilizer over the soil whilst side dressing is when the fertilizer is placed in one particular spot near the plant or the the roots of grain crops

(i)

Importance of mulching

1. It checks growth of weeds (which will otherwise take water out of the soil)
2. It improves soil structure/texture (which in turn improves the soil waters holding capacity/soil drainage)
3. It reduces soil erosion
4. It reduces water loss from the soil (by holding available moisture in the root zone)
5. It adds nutrients to the soil
6. It helps maintain soil temperature

(ii)

Examples of mulching materials

1. Gry grass/grass
2. Banana leaves/plantain leaves/leaves
3. Ground corn cob
4. Palm fronds
5. Polythene materials
6. Organic manure
7. Wood shavings/dust/bark
8. Straw

(i)

Difference between soil erosion and soil depletion

Soil erosion is the removal of top soil by wind or running water whilst soil depletion is the destruction/removal of soil nutrients from the soil.

(ii)

Effects of soil erosion on agricultural productivity

1. Loss of soil nutrients/nutrient imbalance/poor crop growth/yield
2. Destruction of crops
3. Increased cost of production/high doses of fertilizer needed to replenish soil
4. It is difficult to move farm machinery due to gullies
5. It causes siltation of dams/irrigation channels
6. Degradation of soil structure
7. Loss of rooting depth