Quiz on Conventional vs Non-Conventional Farming

What is the main focus of conventional farming?

• Promoting biodiversity

• Reducing chemical use

• Maximizing yield and efficiency

• Using only natural methods

Answer explanation

The main focus of conventional farming is maximizing yield and efficiency. This approach prioritizes high production levels and the use of technology and chemicals to achieve greater outputs, unlike methods that promote biodiversity or reduce chemical use.

Which of the following is a key feature of conventional farming?

• Free-range livestock

• Crop rotation

• Natural fertilizers

• Use of synthetic chemicals

Answer explanation

A key feature of conventional farming is the use of synthetic chemicals, such as pesticides and fertilizers, to enhance crop yields and manage pests, distinguishing it from organic practices that avoid these substances.

Tags

NGSS.MS-PS1-3

What type of crops do conventional farms often grow?

• Monoculture

• Organic crops

• Multiple types of crops

• Heirloom seeds

Answer explanation

Conventional farms often practice monoculture, which involves growing a single crop type over a large area. This method maximizes efficiency and yield but can lead to soil depletion and increased pest issues.

What is a common practice in non-conventional farming?

• Synthetic pesticides

• Use of GMOs

• Crop rotation

• Intensive livestock production

Answer explanation

Crop rotation is a common practice in non-conventional farming as it helps maintain soil health, reduce pests, and improve crop yields. Unlike synthetic pesticides or GMOs, it promotes sustainable agricultural practices.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-5

Which farming method emphasizes environmental conservation?

• Conventional farming

• Non-conventional farming

• Chemical farming

• Industrial farming

Answer explanation

Non-conventional farming focuses on sustainable practices that prioritize environmental conservation, unlike conventional, chemical, or industrial farming methods that often rely on synthetic inputs and intensive resource use.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS3-3

NGSS.MS-LS2-5

What is a disadvantage of non-conventional farming?

• Higher yields

• Lower yields in the short term

• Less biodiversity

• More chemical residues

Answer explanation

Non-conventional farming may lead to lower yields in the short term as it often involves transitioning practices that require time to establish. This can affect immediate productivity compared to traditional methods.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-5

What type of fertilizers do non-conventional farms use?

• Organic matter

• Pesticides

• Synthetic fertilizers

• Chemical fertilizers

Answer explanation

Non-conventional farms primarily use organic matter as fertilizers. This approach enhances soil health and promotes sustainable farming practices, contrasting with synthetic or chemical fertilizers that can harm the environment.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS1-5

What is a benefit of conventional farming?

• Uses fewer chemicals

• Higher yields and faster production

• Reduces pollution

• Promotes biodiversity

Answer explanation

A key benefit of conventional farming is that it typically results in higher yields and faster production due to the use of advanced techniques and inputs, which can help meet the food demand more effectively.

Which of the following is NOT a feature of non-conventional farming?

• Natural pest control

• Free-range livestock

• Use of synthetic chemicals

• Crop rotation

Answer explanation

Non-conventional farming emphasizes natural methods. Features like natural pest control, free-range livestock, and crop rotation align with this approach. In contrast, the use of synthetic chemicals is not a feature of non-conventional farming.

What is a common livestock practice in conventional farming?

• Confined animal feeding operations

• Natural diets

• Free-range grazing

• Pasture-based systems

Answer explanation

Confined animal feeding operations (CAFOs) are a common practice in conventional farming, where animals are kept in high-density environments to maximize production efficiency, contrasting with more natural or free-range methods.