OCR General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) Biology Practice Exam

How do intensive modern farming methods differ from traditional methods?

1. Use of hand tools and manure

2. Dependence on big machines and chemical fertilizers

3. Reliance on organic techniques only

4. Focus on local distribution

The correct answer is: Dependence on big machines and chemical fertilizers

Intensive modern farming methods are characterized by a heavy reliance on large-scale machinery and chemical fertilizers to enhance crop yields and efficiency. This approach allows farmers to cultivate larger areas of land in a shorter amount of time, significantly increasing productivity compared to traditional farming methods, which typically involve manual labor and the use of organic fertilizers like manure. The use of chemical fertilizers in modern farming provides essential nutrients to plants in a faster and more concentrated form than organic alternatives, promoting rapid growth and higher outputs. Additionally, the dependence on mechanization means that tasks such as planting, harvesting, and irrigation can be performed more efficiently, often reducing the labor force required. In contrast, traditional farming methods often rely on smaller-scale operations using hand tools, organic fertilizers, and local distribution systems, which prioritize sustainability and biodiversity over sheer productivity. Thus, the distinctive approach of modern farming focuses on maximizing efficiency and output through industrialized practices.