State three (3) differences between macro nutrients and micro nutrients as used in crop production. Give one (1) example each of macro nutrient and micro nutrient. State three (3) reasons why alloys a

You're on a roll — here are the answers to the questions: 6. a) i) State three (3) differences between macro nutrients and micro nutrients as used in crop production. Macronutrients are required by plants in large quantities, while micronutrients are required in small quantities*. Macronutrients contribute significantly to the bulk structure of the plant, whereas micronutrients primarily function as cofactors for enzymes*. Examples of macronutrients include Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), and Potassium (K). Examples of micronutrients include Iron (Fe), Manganese (Mn), and Boron (B). ii) Give one (1) example each of macro nutrient and micro nutrient. Macronutrient: Nitrogen* Micronutrient: Iron* b) i) State three (3) reasons why alloys are preferred to pure metals. Alloys often have increased strength and hardness* compared to pure metals. Alloys can exhibit improved corrosion resistance*. Alloys can have tailored properties* such as higher melting points or better ductility for specific applications. ii) Differentiate rusting from corrosion. Corrosion* is the general term for the degradation of a material dueor to a chemical reaction with its environment. Rusting* is a specific type of corrosion that applies only to iron and its alloys (like steel), where iron reacts with oxygen and water to form hydrated iron(III) oxide. c) Explain the following terms as used in seed germination: i) Hypogeal germination Hypogeal germination is a type of seed germination where the cotyledons remain below the soil surface*. The epicotyl elongates, pushing the plumule (shoot) above the ground. ii) Epigeal germination. Epigeal germination is a type of seed germination where the cotyledons are pushed above the soil surface* by the elongation of the hypocotyl. d) Write the ionic forms of the following elements: i) Sodium (Na): Na^+ ii) Calcium (Ca): Ca^2+ iii) Aluminium (Al): Al^3+ iv) Oxygen (O): O^2- v) Magnesium (Mg): Mg^2+ 7. a) State two (2) uses of each of the following: i) Metals Used as electrical conductors* (e.g., copper in wires). Used as structural materials* in construction (e.g., steel). ii) Non-metals. Used as insulators* (e.g., rubber, plastic). Essential components of living organisms* (e.g., carbon, oxygen, hydrogen). b) State four (4) ways of controlling mosquitoes in the community. Eliminate stagnant water* sources where mosquitoes breed. Use insecticides or larvicides* in breeding areas. Encourage the use of mosquito nets* over beds. Promote biological control methods*, such as introducing fish that feed on mosquito larvae. c) Give four (4) measures that can be taken to minimize the negative impact of gold extraction on the Ghanaian environment. Implement and enforce strict environmental regulations* for mining operations. Undertake reclamation and rehabilitation* of mined-out lands. Promote the use of environmentally friendly extraction technologies* (e.g., mercury-free methods). Control and prevent illegal mining activities* (galamsey) that cause significant environmental damage. d) State four (4) importance of cover cropping in crop production. Prevents soil erosion* by protecting the soil surface from wind and rain. Suppresses weed growth*, reducing competition with main crops. Adds organic matter* to the soil, improving soil fertility and structure. Fixes atmospheric nitrogen* into the soil if leguminous cover crops are used. 8. a) State two (2) methods of soil conservation. Contour plowing*, where plowing follows the contours of the land to reduce water runoff. Terracing*, which involves creating level steps on slopes to prevent soil erosion. b) i) Define light energy. Light energy is a form of electromagnetic radiation* that is visible to the human eye, traveling in waves and composed of photons. ii) Explain two (2) ways in which light energy is useful to living organisms. Light energy is essential for photosynthesis* in plants, where it is converted into chemical energy to produce food and oxygen. It enables vision* in animals, allowing them to perceive their surroundings and navigate. c) i) Define an atom. An atom is the smallest unit of an element* that retains the chemical identity of that element, consisting of a nucleus (protons and neutrons) surrounded by electrons. ii) An atom has 11 electrons. α) Draw the electronic configuration of the atom. The electronic configuration is 1s^2 2s^2 2p^6 3s^1 or 2, 8, 1. β) Type of bond the element will form with chlorine. The element with 11 electrons is Sodium (Na). It will form an ionic bond* with chlorine. γ) Give two (2) reasons for the type of chemical bond stated in (β) above. Sodium (a metal) readily loses one electron to achieve a stable electron configuration, while chlorine (a non-metal) readily gains one electron* to achieve stability. There is a large electronegativity difference* between sodium and chlorine, leading to the complete transfer of electrons rather than sharing. d) i) Define food poisoning. Food poisoning is an illness caused by consuming food or drink contaminated with harmful bacteria, viruses, parasites, or toxins*. ii) Explain two causes of food poisoning. Contamination by pathogenic microorganisms: This occurs when food is exposed to bacteria (e.g., Salmonella, E. coli*), viruses, or parasites, often due to improper handling or unsanitary conditions. Toxins produced by bacteria: Some bacteria, like Staphylococcus aureus or Clostridium botulinum*, can produce toxins in food that cause illness even if the bacteria themselves are no longer present. What's next?