Question 1
The diagram below illustrates a bag of compound fertilizer. Study it and answer the questions that follow.
(a) Name the nutrient elements present in the compound fertilizer. (3 marks)
(b) Calculate the amount of each nutrient element in the compound fertilizer. (3 marks)
(c) (i) Name the major nutrient element present in the compound fertilizer.
(ii) Mention one function of the major nutrient element named in 1(c)(i). (2 marks)
(d) List four ways of applying the fertilizer in the bag to the soil. (4 marks)
(e) Give three other examples of compound fertilizers that could be applied to soils.
(3 marks)
Observation
- Many candidates were unable to name the nutrient elements present in the compound fertilizer as well as calculate the amount of each nutrient element. Most candidates that attempted Question 1 (b) either calculated the weights in percentages or forgot to give the weights in kilogrammes.
- Many candidates could not name the major nutrient in the compound fertilizer and thus were
unable to state its functions.
The expected answers include:
1. (a) Nutrient elements present in the compound fertilizer
- Nitrogen
- Phosphorus
- Potassium
(b) Calculation of the nutrient elements in the compound fertilizer
(i) Major nutrient element present in the compound fertilizer
- Phosphorus
(ii) Function of phosphorus
- Aids enzyme reactions
- Constituent of cell nucleus
- Essential for cell division
- Aids in seed germination
- Helps in ripening of fruits
- Aids pod/fruit formation and maturity
- Increases crop resistance to diseases
- Aids in root development
(d) Ways of applying the fertilizer in the bag to the soil
- Band placement - Ring method
- Broadcasting - Foliar spraying
- Side dressing/ top dressing - Drilling
(e) Examples of compound fertilizers that could be applied to soils
- Ammonium phosphate/Diammonium phosphate
- Calcium ammonium nitrate
- Calcium nitrate
- Potassium phosphate
- Sodium nitrate
- Sulphate of potash/Potassium sulphate
- Sulphate of ammonia/Ammonium sulphate
- Magnesium sulphate