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Environmental Science

5 Dec 2025

148

3 pages

AQA A-Level Agriculture Study Questions

M

Molly Gowar @mollygowar

Agriculture isn't just about planting seeds and hoping for the best - it's actually a clever science where... Show more

### 3.5.1 agriculture

1. Describe how species are selected for agriculture
   - Market demand and access
   - Whether envi conditions are w

Species Selection and Environmental Factors

Choosing what to grow isn't random - farmers consider market demand, whether the local environment suits their chosen species, and if they can tweak conditions to boost productivity. It's like matching the right plant or animal to the perfect home where it can thrive.

Four key environmental factors determine agricultural success temperature, light, water availability, and soil fertility. Additional factors like topography, relief, and pests also play crucial roles in determining whether crops will flourish or fail.

The physical landscape matters too. Topography affects everything from how much sunlight plants receive to whether cold air gets trapped in valleys, potentially causing frost damage that could wipe out entire crops.

Quick Tip Think of environmental factors like ingredients in a recipe - you need the right combination for success!

### 3.5.1 agriculture

1. Describe how species are selected for agriculture
   - Market demand and access
   - Whether envi conditions are w

Temperature and Light Control

Temperature controls the length of the growing season and affects crucial plant processes. Grass might survive cold weather, but it only actually grows above 5°C. Higher temperatures speed up biochemical reactions but also increase water loss through evapotranspiration.

Farmers can control temperature by avoiding frost-prone low-lying areas, using greenhouses, or covering fields with transparent plastic cloth. Livestock need shelter to maintain body temperature and use energy for growth rather than just staying warm.

Light intensity drives photosynthesis, whilst day length affects growth rates. Interestingly, poultry grow best during short days but produce more eggs when days are longer - showing how complex these relationships can be.

Did You Know? Farmers can extend growing seasons using artificial lighting, essentially tricking plants into thinking it's still summer!

### 3.5.1 agriculture

1. Describe how species are selected for agriculture
   - Market demand and access
   - Whether envi conditions are w

Water Management and Soil Fertility

Water is absolutely essential - it's the solvent in all cells, transports nutrients, maintains cell structure, and enables gas exchange. Without adequate water, plants can't absorb dissolved nutrients or replace what they lose through transpiration.

Smart farmers increase water availability through irrigation, soil mulching to reduce evaporation, and adding organic matter to help soil retain moisture. Earthworms are brilliant allies here, improving water infiltration and reducing runoff.

Soil fertility must be maintained because harvesting removes nutrients that need replacing. This can be achieved through natural processes (like nitrogen fixation by legumes), organic fertilisers, inorganic fertilisers, or even hydroponics - growing crops in nutrient solutions rather than soil.

Each fertiliser type has trade-offs. Organic fertilisers are often local waste products that improve soil structure but release nutrients slowly. Inorganic fertilisers offer precise control and rapid nutrient release but require lots of energy to manufacture and don't improve soil organic matter.

Think About It Hydroponics eliminates soil-borne diseases and weeds but requires high-tech knowledge and energy inputs!

We thought you’d never ask...

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The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

 

Environmental Science

148

5 Dec 2025

3 pages

AQA A-Level Agriculture Study Questions

M

Molly Gowar

@mollygowar

Agriculture isn't just about planting seeds and hoping for the best - it's actually a clever science where farmers manipulate environmental conditions to maximise crop and livestock productivity. Understanding how to select the right species and control factors like temperature,... Show more

### 3.5.1 agriculture

1. Describe how species are selected for agriculture
   - Market demand and access
   - Whether envi conditions are w

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Species Selection and Environmental Factors

Choosing what to grow isn't random - farmers consider market demand, whether the local environment suits their chosen species, and if they can tweak conditions to boost productivity. It's like matching the right plant or animal to the perfect home where it can thrive.

Four key environmental factors determine agricultural success: temperature, light, water availability, and soil fertility. Additional factors like topography, relief, and pests also play crucial roles in determining whether crops will flourish or fail.

The physical landscape matters too. Topography affects everything from how much sunlight plants receive to whether cold air gets trapped in valleys, potentially causing frost damage that could wipe out entire crops.

Quick Tip: Think of environmental factors like ingredients in a recipe - you need the right combination for success!

### 3.5.1 agriculture

1. Describe how species are selected for agriculture
   - Market demand and access
   - Whether envi conditions are w

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Temperature and Light Control

Temperature controls the length of the growing season and affects crucial plant processes. Grass might survive cold weather, but it only actually grows above 5°C. Higher temperatures speed up biochemical reactions but also increase water loss through evapotranspiration.

Farmers can control temperature by avoiding frost-prone low-lying areas, using greenhouses, or covering fields with transparent plastic cloth. Livestock need shelter to maintain body temperature and use energy for growth rather than just staying warm.

Light intensity drives photosynthesis, whilst day length affects growth rates. Interestingly, poultry grow best during short days but produce more eggs when days are longer - showing how complex these relationships can be.

Did You Know?: Farmers can extend growing seasons using artificial lighting, essentially tricking plants into thinking it's still summer!

### 3.5.1 agriculture

1. Describe how species are selected for agriculture
   - Market demand and access
   - Whether envi conditions are w

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Water Management and Soil Fertility

Water is absolutely essential - it's the solvent in all cells, transports nutrients, maintains cell structure, and enables gas exchange. Without adequate water, plants can't absorb dissolved nutrients or replace what they lose through transpiration.

Smart farmers increase water availability through irrigation, soil mulching to reduce evaporation, and adding organic matter to help soil retain moisture. Earthworms are brilliant allies here, improving water infiltration and reducing runoff.

Soil fertility must be maintained because harvesting removes nutrients that need replacing. This can be achieved through natural processes (like nitrogen fixation by legumes), organic fertilisers, inorganic fertilisers, or even hydroponics - growing crops in nutrient solutions rather than soil.

Each fertiliser type has trade-offs. Organic fertilisers are often local waste products that improve soil structure but release nutrients slowly. Inorganic fertilisers offer precise control and rapid nutrient release but require lots of energy to manufacture and don't improve soil organic matter.

Think About It: Hydroponics eliminates soil-borne diseases and weeds but requires high-tech knowledge and energy inputs!

We thought you’d never ask...

What is the Knowunity AI companion?

Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.

Where can I download the Knowunity app?

You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.

Is Knowunity really free of charge?

That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.

7

Smart Tools NEW

Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines

Mock Exam
Quiz
Flashcards
Essay

Most popular content in Geography

Most popular content

English - inspector calls quotes and analysis

Quotes from every main character

English LiteratureEnglish Literature
10

Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.

Students love us — and so will you.

4.9/5

App Store

4.8/5

Google Play

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user