Introduction to Agriculture

Questions and Answers

What are the Latin origins of the word 'agriculture' and what do they mean?

The word 'agriculture' is derived from 'Ager,' meaning land or field, and 'Cultura,' meaning cultivation.

Explain the dual nature of agriculture as both an art and a science.

Agriculture is an art that involves skillful operation of farming and a science that utilizes modern technologies and scientific principles for crop production.

What is the primary aim of agriculture in relation to land management?

The primary aim of agriculture is to increase land productivity while protecting it from deterioration and misuse.

Describe how agriculture is viewed as a business.

Agriculture as a business focuses on maximizing net returns through the management of resources like land, labor, and capital. Signup and view all the answers

List three human needs that agriculture helps to fulfill.

Agriculture fulfills the human needs for food, shelter, and clothing. Signup and view all the answers

What role do modern technologies play in agriculture?

Modern technologies aid in crop improvement, production, and protection, helping to maximize yield and profit. Signup and view all the answers

How does the systematic raising of plants and livestock contribute to agricultural productivity?

Systematic raising ensures consistent management and efficient use of resources to meet human needs. Signup and view all the answers

What are some examples of modern agricultural practices mentioned in the content?

Examples include hybridization, transgenic crops, and biotechnology. Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of agricultural supplies and services in food production?

They provide essential inputs and support for the processing, marketing, and distribution of agricultural products. Signup and view all the answers

How could biodiesel from Jatropha contribute to the economy?

Biodiesel can provide fuel for industries, thereby promoting energy independence and creating job opportunities. Signup and view all the answers

In what ways does agriculture provide revenue for governments?

Governments earn revenue through taxes, rent from agricultural land, and taxes on goods produced. Signup and view all the answers

Why is the balance of gaseous concentrations in the atmosphere important?

It is vital for sustaining life, as plants release oxygen while animals produce carbon dioxide. Signup and view all the answers

What is the projected arable land per person by 2050, and why is this concerning?

Arable land per person is expected to decline to just over one-tenth of a hectare, raising concerns about food security. Signup and view all the answers

How significant is agriculture to the GDP of the Philippines?

Agriculture contributes 9.6% to the GDP of the Philippines, indicating its importance to the economy. Signup and view all the answers

What challenges does the decline in agricultural land pose for the Philippines?

It leads to lower farm output and decreased food production, affecting food availability. Signup and view all the answers

Which ASEAN country’s agricultural production includes the highest tonnage of rice?

Vietnam is known as one of the leading producers of rice in the ASEAN region. Signup and view all the answers

What was the recent trend in livestock production in the Philippines as reported in 2021?

The livestock production experienced a significant decline of -17.0%. Signup and view all the answers

How does increasing population pressure affect agricultural land globally?

It exacerbates the strain on agricultural lands, necessitating an increase in food production. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Definition of Agriculture

Derived from Latin "Ager" (land) and "Cultura" (cultivation).
Involves cultivation of land to produce crops and livestock for economic purposes.

Aspects of Agriculture

Science and Art: Combines knowledge and skillful management of farming operations.
Business: Focuses on maximizing net return through efficient management of resources (land, labor, water, and capital).

Importance of Agriculture

Essential for producing food, shelter, and clothing.
Provides agricultural supplies, services, and the processing, marketing, and distribution of products.
Contributes to fuel production (e.g., biodiesel from Jatropha).
Generates income and employment opportunities.
Exports agricultural products, earning foreign currency and fostering international relations.
Government revenue from taxes and rent on agricultural land.
Enhances natural beauty through cultivation of flowers and ornamental plants.
Helps maintain environmental balance by regulating atmospheric gases.

Global Food Production Context

World population projected to grow from 7.8 billion to 9.9 billion by 2050.
Increased demand for food due to population growth, especially in developing countries.
Only 10% of the world's land is arable, with significant portions unsuitable for agriculture.
Arable land per capita expected to decrease to just over one-tenth of a hectare by 2050.

Agriculture in the Philippines

Agriculture contributes 9.6% to GDP but has declined by -0.3%.
Export earnings dwindled in recent years, highlighting economic challenges.
Overall agricultural production value fell by 1.7% in 2021.
Notable decreases in livestock and poultry production.

ASEAN Agricultural Region

Comprises 10 member countries with significant agricultural outputs.
In 2012, notable production included 129 million tons of rice and 40 million tons of corn.
Established as one of the world's most productive agricultural regions.

Challenges in Philippine Agriculture

Population of 109 million; total land area of 30 million hectares.
Agricultural land decreased to 13.32 million hectares by 2018, impacting farm output.
A reported 1.3% decline in agricultural crop harvest area in 2019, indicating productivity challenges.

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Description

Explore the fundamentals of agriculture, including its definition and significance in the cultivation of crops and livestock. This quiz delves into the science and art behind agricultural practices and their economic implications. Test your knowledge on the systematic management of natural resources in agriculture.