Question

Prolonged liberal irrigation of agricultural fields is likely to create a problem of

A) Acidity

B) Alkalinity

C) Salinity

D) Metal toxicity

Answer 1

Irrigation should be optimal since the output of crops can be ruined even by over-irrigation. Since roots do not tolerate standing water, excess water contributes to waterlogging, hampers germination, increases salt concentration, and de- rooting. Thus, for the best cultivation, the correct method is to be used.

Complete answer:

- The salinity problem is likely to be produced by prolonged liberal irrigation of agricultural fields.

- Salinity means that salt accumulates in soil and lowers the consistency of the soil and water.

- Salinity decreases the ability of the plant to absorb water, contributing to a reduction in the growth rate of the plant.

- Salinity causes salt stress in plants.

- Prolonged liberal irrigation results in nutrient depletion in the soil so that the plants do not grow properly.

Additional Information:

- Irrigation is the mechanism by which water is artificially added to crops to fulfill their water requirements.

- The following points illustrate the importance of irrigation:

- Agriculture is affected adversely by inadequate and uncertain rainfall. Because of low precipitation, droughts and famines are triggered. Also with low rainfall, irrigation helps to improve production.

- Compared to un- irrigated land, productivity on irrigated land is higher.

- In most areas of the world, irrigation facilities make it possible to grow more than one crop.

- Irrigation has helped put most of the fallow land under cultivation. Irrigation has stabilized the rate of production and yield.

- Irrigation increases the availability of water supply, which in turn increases farmer’s income.

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So, the correct answer is ‘(c) Salinity’.

Note:

- Irrigation provides the requisite moisture for development and growth, germination, and other related functions.

- In India, multiple cropping is not feasible because in most regions the rainy season is unique.

- The climate, however, supports cultivation throughout the year.