Question 1

Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are made by taking bits of DNA from different sources to create desired characteristics in an organism.

Accepted Answer

This statement is true. GMOs are made through the process of genetic engineering, in which bits of DNA from different sources are combined to give an organism new or improved traits. For example, this may be done to make a plant resistant to pests or to increase its yield.

Question 2

The number of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and the acreage devoted to growing them has decreased in the past fifteen years because of the huge number of opponents.

Accepted Answer

The statement is false. The number of GMOs and acreage devoted to growing them has actually increased over the past 15 years, despite opposition from some groups.

Question 3

The biggest worry about a genetically modified Atlantic salmon with extra growth hormones is that it will introduce these hormones into our diet.

Accepted Answer

The primary concern with genetically modified Atlantic salmon that grow faster due to added growth hormones is not about introducing these hormones into the human diet, but rather the environmental impact and potential for these genetically modified fish to interbreed with wild populations or outcompete them for resources if they escape into the wild. The growth hormone genes are integrated into the fish's DNA and do not directly affect the consumer's hormone levels.

Question 4

Contour plowing and strip farming are methods designed to

Accepted Answer

Contour plowing and strip farming are methods designed to prevent water and soil loss, by creating barriers or rows that slow down water runoff and prevent erosion.

Question 5

Which is a disadvantage of conservation tillage methods?

Accepted Answer

Conservation tillage methods can leave crop residue on the soil surface, which can create a suitable environment for pests and weeds to thrive. This can lead to increased pest and weed populations in the fields.

Question 6

More than 70% of all soybeans, corn, and cotton grown in the United States are genetically modified.

Accepted Answer

According to the USDA, in 2019, 94% of soybeans, 92% of corn, and 94% of cotton grown in the United States are genetically modified.

Question 7

Methods of managing topography include all but which of the following?

Accepted Answer

Deep tilling can actually be damaging to the soil and exacerbate erosion, therefore it is not a recommended method of managing topography. Terracing, contour plowing, and strip-farming are all effective methods for managing topography and preventing erosion.

Question 8

Fifty years ago, there were several hundred varieties of wheat grown in the Middle East. Now a few of the more modern high responder varieties have replaced the indigenous species. What are the implications of this change?

Accepted Answer

The replacement of several hundred varieties of wheat with a few modern high responder varieties has diminished the genetic resources of wheat. This reliance on a few species also increases the risk of an epidemic of wheat disease.

Question 9

What is the advantage of genetically modified crops (GMOs)?

Accepted Answer

All of the given options are advantages of genetically modified crops (GMOs). They are designed to resist drought, offer improved resistance to pests and diseases, can be engineered to improve yield, and can even be altered to produce vaccines. These benefits ultimately lead to increased crop production and a more sustainable agricultural system.

Question 10

Which of these is not a benefit found with reduced tillage farming?

Accepted Answer

The answer of Which of these is not a benefit...

Question 11

The USDA estimates ______ percent of conventionally grown foods are contaminated with pesticide residue.

Accepted Answer

The USDA estimates that 73 percent of conventionally grown foods are contaminated with pesticide residue, highlighting concerns about the widespread presence of pesticides in the food supply.

Question 12

A natural form of fertilizer would be

Accepted Answer

Manure is a natural source of fertilizer that is rich in nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. It is made from animal waste and can also contain bedding materials such as straw or sawdust. Manure is often used as a fertilizer in organic farming and gardening because it is a sustainable and renewable source of nutrients. Phosphorous application, nitrogen, corn plantings, and genetically modified crop plantings are not natural forms of fertilizer.

Question 13

Sustainable farming

Accepted Answer

The answer of Sustainable farming
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Question 14

You can participate in sustainable agriculture by

Accepted Answer

Eating locally means your food travels less distance before it reaches your plate, reducing carbon emissions related to transportation. Eating lower on the food chain means consuming more plant-based foods, leading to a more efficient use of resources and less greenhouse gas emissions. Participating in CSAs supports local, small-scale farmers and promotes sustainable agriculture practices. Therefore, the best choice is to eat locally lower on the food chain and participate in CSAs to achieve a more sustainable agriculture system.

Quiz 7: Food and Agriculture