Soil Biology And Biochemistry Question Paper
Soil Biology And Biochemistry
Course:Bachelor Of Science In Agribusiness Management
Institution: Kenyatta University question papers
Exam Year:2010
DATE: Tuesday 28th December 2010
TIME: 9.00a.m -12.00p.m
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INSTRUCTIONS
Answer Question ONE and any other THREE.
1.
(a)
Name the bacteria which oxidize reduced sulfur compounds to sulfate in soil.
Show by equation how that is achieved.
(6 marks)
(b)
Before the soil at Yala swamp was reclaimed the pH was 6.5. After a year, its
pH had dropped to 5.0. Explain the cause of the pH drop.
(4 marks)
(c)
Explain the following terms:
(i)
chemoautotrophs
(ii)
photoautotrophs
(iii)
nitrogen
(iv)
recalcitrant molecule
(v)
fermentation
(10 marks)
(d)
Explain photosynthesis by phototrophic bacteria. How does it differ from
photosynthesis by higher plants?
(e)
What is the role of bacteroids in N fixation?
(5 marks)
(f)
Explain how microorganisms obtain energy for their metabolic activities in soil.
(2 marks)
Page 1 of 2
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2.
Protein is an important organic substrate. Discuss its biodegradation and the main end
product at each step of degradation.
(15 marks)
3.
Distinguish between biodegradation of DDt and chitin in soil. Discuss the advantages
of biodegradation to environment and man.
(10 marks)
4.
With examples name two types of hydrocarbon and explain why they are not easily
biodegraded in soil.
(15 marks)
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