Identify the soil type that forms a long ribbon when pressed, and state two characteristics of this soil. Describe characteristics of sandy and loamy soil, and list advantages of loamy soil and disadv

The partially visible question asks to identify the soil type that forms a long ribbon when pressed.

• Soil type: Clay soil

12. State two characteristics of this soil (clay soil).
i. It has very fine particles.
ii. It has high water retention but poor drainage.

13. Describe two characteristics of sandy soil.
i. Sandy soil has large, coarse particles and a gritty texture.
ii. It has good drainage but poor water retention.

14. Describe two characteristics of clay soil.
i. Clay soil has very fine particles and feels sticky when wet.
ii. It has high water retention and poor aeration.

15. Describe two characteristics of loamy soil.
i. Loamy soil is a mixture of sand, silt, and clay, providing a balanced texture.
ii. It has good water retention and good drainage, making it ideal for most crops.

16. State four advantages of loamy soil for crop production.
i. It has good water retention, providing sufficient moisture for plants.
ii. It has good drainage, preventing waterlogging and root rot.
iii. It has good aeration, allowing roots to breathe effectively.
iv. It is generally rich in nutrients and easy to cultivate.

17. State three disadvantages of sandy soil in farming.
i. It has low water retention, requiring frequent irrigation.
ii. It has low nutrient retention, leading to nutrient leaching.
iii. It is prone to erosion by wind and water due to its loose structure.

18. State three disadvantages of clay soil in farming.
i. It has poor drainage, leading to waterlogging and suffocating roots.
ii. It is hard to cultivate as it becomes very hard when dry and sticky when wet.
iii. It has poor aeration, limiting oxygen supply to plant roots.