Why are farming practices like terraced fields important in terms of soil conservation?(1 point)
Responses
They cause nutrients in the soil to leak out, which is essential because plants need nutrient-poor soil.
They cause nutrients in the soil to leak out, which is essential because plants need nutrient-poor soil.
They prevent soil from eroding and becoming lost, which is essential because soil is a nonrenewable resource.
They prevent soil from eroding and becoming lost, which is essential because soil is a nonrenewable resource.
They help limit the amount of soil that is produced, which is essential because soil is a renewable resource.
They help limit the amount of soil that is produced, which is essential because soil is a renewable resource.
They remove pollutants from the soil, which is essential because living things depend on pollutant-free soil.
They remove pollutants from the soil, which is essential because living things depend on pollutant-free soil.
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The correct response is: They prevent soil from eroding and becoming lost, which is essential because soil is a nonrenewable resource.
The correct response is:
They prevent soil from eroding and becoming lost, which is essential because soil is a nonrenewable resource.
The correct answer is: They prevent soil from eroding and becoming lost, which is essential because soil is a nonrenewable resource.
Terraced fields are farming practices that involve shaping the land into steps or platforms, creating flat areas for cultivation. This technique helps to slow down the flow of water and prevent soil erosion. Here's how:
1. Step 1: Gravity and Runoff
When it rains, water naturally flows down slopes, picking up speed and carrying away soil particles with it. Sloping fields without any control measures can experience significant erosion, losing valuable topsoil.
2. Step 2: Terracing
Terracing interrupts the flow of water down the slope by creating flat areas. This prevents the water from gaining too much momentum and reduces its erosive power. Each terrace acts as a mini-reservoir, allowing water to soak into the soil slowly.
3. Step 3: Soil Conservation
By reducing erosion, terraced fields help to conserve soil. Soil is a nonrenewable resource that takes thousands of years to form. Once eroded, it can take centuries to replace naturally. Thus, preserving and preventing soil loss is crucial for sustainable agriculture.
4. Step 4: Retaining Nutrients
Terraces also play a role in nutrient conservation. When soil erodes, it carries away valuable nutrients that are essential for plant growth. By preventing erosion, terraces ensure that necessary nutrients remain in the cultivated area, supporting healthy plant growth.
In conclusion, terraced fields are important for soil conservation because they prevent erosion and the loss of valuable topsoil. By retaining soil nutrients and slowing down water runoff, they aid in maintaining a sustainable and productive agricultural system.