SPM Science 2024 (Real Paper), Paper 2 (Question 13)


Question 13:
Various government and private agencies in Malaysia put a lot of effort to increase food quality and quantity of national food production

(a) State two ways to increase the quality and quantity of food production. [2 marks]

(b) Diagram 12 shows a machine in agriculture field.
State two advantages of using the machine in Diagram 12. [2 marks]


(c) Malaysian Agriculture Research and Development (MARDI) has produced ‘Bintang Mas’ starfruits through research conducted.

The following are the characteristics of ‘Bintang Mas’.
– Hybrid clone
– High yield
– Sweeter
– Crunchier
– Shorter maturity period

Describe the benefits of the characteristics of ‘Bintang Mas’ starfruit towards food production industry.
[4 marks]

(d) Other than carrying out lab research, MARDI also provides guidance to the farmers. Justify the action of providing guidance to the farmers by MARDI towards food production technology.
[4 marks]


Answer:
(a)
– Use of modern technology
– Use of quality breed
– Efficient land management
– Research and development
– Optimal use of land and water resources
– Education and guidance for farmers
[any two answers]

Explanation:
By combining these approaches, food production can be enhanced more effectively and competitively


(b)
– Speed up the rate of crop planting

– This machine reduces the need for heavy manual labor, making it easier for farmers and decreasing the risk of injury

– The use of machinery allows processes such as irrigation to be carried out more accurately, minimising waste of water and other resources.
[any two answers]

Explanation:
Using machinery in agriculture increases work efficiency, reduces resource waste, and lessens the physical burden on farmers, allowing farmers them to complete more tasks in a shorter time and in a safer manner. Additionally, the use of machinery helps produce higher quality yields and supports sustainable farming practices.


(c)
– Hybrid clones improve resistance to diseases and weather, reducing crop losses.

– High yield allows farmers to harvest more fruit from the same area, increasing income and efficiency in land use.

– The sweeter taste and crunchier texture make Bintang Mas more appealing to consumers, increasing demand and market value.

– A shorter maturity period allows farmers to harvest earlier and multiple times in a season, increasing overall production and profits.


Explanation:
‘Bintang Mas’ is a hybrid clone that resists disease and extreme weather, helping reduce crop loss and ensure consistent yields, which improves efficiency in food production. Its high yield means more fruits are produced per season, boosting food supply and farmers’ income. Moreover, the fruit is sweeter and crunchier, making it more appealing to consumers and increasing market demand and product value. Additionally, the shorter maturity period allows for faster planting and harvesting cycles, enabling more frequent production throughout the year, which raises overall industry productivity.


(d)
– MARDI helps farmers understand the latest agricultural techniques and innovations in food production, enhancing their knowledge of better farming practices.

– With MARDI’s guidance, farmers can apply modern technologies such as smart irrigation systems and precise fertiliser use, improving crop yields and product quality.

– MARDI guides farmers in managing resources such as water and soil, ensuring efficient and sustainable use, which is crucial in facing climate change challenges.

– By gaining new knowledge and skills, farmers can increase their income through higher production and better product quality.

Explanation:
MARDI’s action of providing guidance to farmers is justified because it ensures that food production technologies developed in research are applied correctly and effectively in the field. With proper guidance, farmers can adopt modern techniques such as fertilisation methods, pest control, and efficient planting systems, which lead to improved crop yield and quality. Furthermore, it helps reduce reliance on traditional methods that are less productive, and allows farmers to adopt innovations more quickly and safely. Lastly, it promotes sustainable agricultural development, contributing to the continuous and secure food supply for the country.

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