Questions and Answers
How can glasshouses and polythene tunnels be used to increase the yield of certain crops?
They protect crops from harsh weather conditions and allow for monitored growing conditions.
What are the effects on crop yield of increased carbon dioxide and increased temperature in glasshouses?
Increased carbon dioxide and temperature can enhance photosynthesis, leading to higher crop yield.
How does the use of fertilizer increase crop yield?
Fertilizers contain mineral ions that are absorbed by plants for optimum growth.
What role do magnesium ions play in plants?
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What is one advantage of biological pest control compared to chemical pest control?
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Which mineral ion is used to make amino acids?
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What does the term 'transgenic' mean?
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Describe the process of micropropagation.
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Study Notes
Food Production: Glasshouses and Polythene Tunnels
- Glasshouses and polythene tunnels offer protection from harsh weather, enhancing crop yield.
- Controlled conditions allow for monitoring factors such as temperature and humidity, favorable for sensitive crops like tomatoes, lettuce, and strawberries.
- Increased carbon dioxide levels and warmer temperatures inside glasshouses boost photosynthesis, directly impacting crop yields.
Fertilizers and Crop Yield
- Fertilizers supply essential mineral ions for optimal plant growth.
- Mineral ions are absorbed through the roots via active transport and transported through the xylem with water.
- Key mineral ions:
- Magnesium ions: Essential for chlorophyll production.
- Nitrates: Necessary for amino acid formation, supporting protein synthesis and growth.
- Phosphates: Important for energy production and genetic material synthesis.
- Potassium ions: Activate enzymes for various plant processes.
Pest Control: Chemicals vs. Biological Methods
- Pest control is crucial for protecting crops from damage and maximizing yield.
- Biological control is selective; for example, ladybirds specifically target aphids without harming other beneficial insects.
- Chemical pesticides, while effective, are not selective, potentially killing non-target organisms and posing environmental risks due to persistence.
- Biocontrol methods do not accumulate in the environment, reducing long-term ecological impacts.
Selective Breeding and Genetic Modification
- Selective breeding enhances plant and animal characteristics to develop desirable traits.
- Genetic modification uses restriction enzymes to cut DNA at specific sites and ligase enzymes to join DNA segments.
- Plasmids and viruses serve as vectors for inserting recombinant DNA into host cells, facilitating genetic modifications.
Cloning and Micropropagation
- Micropropagation involves growing explants in vitro to produce commercial quantities of genetically identical plants with desirable traits.
- Cloned mammals are created by introducing a diploid nucleus from a mature cell into an enucleated egg cell, exemplified by Dolly the sheep.
- Cloned transgenic animals can be engineered to produce human proteins, demonstrating the practical applications of cloning in biotechnology.
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Description
This quiz focuses on Unit 7 of the Biological Resources, emphasizing food production techniques. Explore how glasshouses, polythene tunnels, and fertilizers contribute to enhanced crop yields. Evaluate the impact of carbon dioxide and temperature on agriculture within controlled environments.
