Section 1: soil science – soil pH and fertility

Question 1: what does pH measure?

pH measures the acidity of a substance by recording the H+ ion concentration.

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Question 2: what pH is neutral?

pH 7 is neutral.

Question 3: ideal pH for most crops?

The ideal soil pH for most crops is 6.5.

Question 4: what does lime do?

Lime raises soil pH and improves nutrient availability.

Question 5: how does pH affect nutrients?

Low pH makes nutrients less available, while high pH can lock certain nutrients up.

Section 2: grassland management – rotational grazing

Question 1: define rotational grazing

Rotational grazing is moving livestock between paddocks or grazing areas.

Question 2: why rest paddocks?

Paddocks are rested to allow grass regrowth.

Question 3: what is one benefit for animals?

Improved animal performance or better-quality grass for feeding.

Question 4: what is one benefit for grass?

Higher grass yield or improved grass quality.

Section 3: agricultural economics – fixed vs variable costs

Question 1: define fixed costs

Fixed costs are costs that do not change with output or production level.

Questions 2: give one example of a fixed cost

Machinery, buildings, or insurance.

Question 3: define variable costs

Variable costs are costs that change with production or output level.

Question 4: give one example of variable costs

Feed, fertiliser, or fuel.

Question 5: which costs change with output?

Variable costs change with output.

This has been a brief introduction to our audio revision notes series.

From the new school year, full-length recordings will be available, covering the agricultural science course in greater detail and aligned with exam requirements. Each episode will be 30-40 minutes and will focus on a specific area of the Leaving Certificate syllabus, with a quick-fire quiz at the end.

These resources are designed to support independent study and reinforce key concepts throughout the academic year. Perfect for studying on the move, reinforcing classroom learning, or getting in some last-minute revision before exams.

On behalf of everyone in the Irish Farmers Journal, we wish you the best of luck in your upcoming exams.