Professional Documents
Culture Documents
engineering.
*Agricultural scientists study plants and soils. They use science to protect, develop, and manage
these resources. Agricultural science is similar to biology. Agricultural scientists use the principles of
biology, chemistry, and other sciences to solve problems in agriculture. These problems are usually
with insects, crops, or soil use. The work agricultural scientists do plays an important part in
increasing food production. Agricultural scientists study plants and soils to develop ways of
improving food quantity and quality. They look for ways to improve how crops are grown. They
also try to find ways to grow crops using less labor and chemicals. Agricultural scientists try to find
better, safer ways to control pests and weeds. They also study ways to conserve soil and water. They
research ways of turning raw agricultural products into attractive and healthy food products for
consumers. Agricultural scientists may also work in range systems, meaning they work with
livestock as well as plants and soil.
Another name for scientists who work with plants or crops is agronomists. Agronomists develop
methods of growing crops with higher yields and improved characteristics. Their main approach to
crop improvement is changing the seeds. Sometimes agronomists use genetic engineering to develop
crops which are resistant to pests and drought. Thus, they examine the genetics, cellular biology,
breeding, and physiology of crops. Other agronomists identify and classify the insects that affect
crops. They may research ways to develop new pesticides or other ways to keep bugs from
spreading. They also may vary the way crops are grown and managed. Much of an agronomist's time
is spent planning and conducting studies of crop yields.
Soil scientists study the physics, microbiology, mineralogy, and fertility of soil. They study what soil
is made of and how different soils affect crops. In addition, they study how soil is managed while
growing crops. This includes how soils respond to fertilizer and crop rotation. Some scientists
conduct surveys in which they classify and map soils. Soil scientists also develop ways to protect
the soil. Using the results of their studies, they provide information to farmers and other landowners
about the best use of land. They recommend how to avoid or correct problems such as erosion. Soil
scientists may also consult with engineers and other technical workers about construction projects.
They talk about how to solve soil problems in urban and rural areas. Soil science is closely related to
environmental science.
Many agricultural scientists work in basic or applied research. Basic research is study for the sake of
knowledge and understanding, rather than for creating or inventing products. Most basic research
happens in colleges or universities. In contrast, applied research scientists take basic research
findings and use them to create products or solutions. Many agricultural scientists manage research
and development programs. Others manage marketing or production for businesses.
1-How many paragraphs are there in the text? Give a title for each one?
3-What do the underlined words in the text refer to? They – They –their –
they – them.
1/2
4-Say whether theses statements are true (T) or false (F), correct the false
ones:
• Agricultural scientists study plants and soils to grow ways of improving food quantity and quality
• Earth Science focused around the chemistry, crystal structure, and physical
including optical properties of minerals.
7-Rewrite the 2nd sentence so that it means the same as number one:
1a-Agricultural scientists study plants and soils to develop ways of improving food quantity and quality
2a-Soil scientists may also consult with engineers and other technical workers about construction projects
.
*http://www.illinoisworknet.com/vos_portal/residents/en/Jobs/Prepare/Careers/career_listings.htm?&occId=1
00229&occTyp=intro&occText=Agronomists
Good Luck
mtselt@hotmail.com
2/2