- 1. Soil microbiology is the study of microorganisms that live in soil and the processes they are involved in. These microorganisms include bacteria, fungi, protozoa, nematodes, and archaea, all of which play crucial roles in nutrient cycling, organic matter decomposition, and maintenance of soil structure. Soil microbiology also investigates how these microorganisms interact with plants to form symbiotic relationships, influencing plant health and growth. Understanding soil microbiology is essential for sustainable agriculture practices, environmental conservation, and overall soil health.
Which of the following is an example of a soil microorganism?
A) Butterfly
B) Caterpillar
C) Bacteria
D) Earthworm
- 2. What is the function of nitrogen-fixing bacteria in soil microbiology?
A) Break down organic matter
B) Increase soil salinity
C) Prevent soil erosion
D) Convert atmospheric nitrogen into a usable form
- 3. What is the primary source of energy for most soil microorganisms?
A) Organic matter
B) Sunlight
C) Carbon dioxide
D) Water
- 4. What is the significance of soil microbiology in agriculture?
A) Enhances soil fertility and nutrient availability
B) Decreases soil compaction
C) Promotes soil erosion
D) Increases pest infestation
- 5. Which soil microorganism contributes to the decomposition of organic matter?
A) Nematodes
B) Fungi
C) Algae
D) Snails
- 6. What role do actinomycetes play in soil microbiology?
A) Produce antibiotics
B) Contribute to soil erosion
C) Fix nitrogen
D) Synthesize carbohydrates
- 7. Which of the following is a common method to measure microbial biomass in soil?
A) Gas chromatography
B) UV-Visible Spectroscopy
C) Phospholipid fatty acid analysis
D) Mass spectrometry
- 8. Which of the following factors can promote microbial diversity in soils?
A) Extreme pH
B) High salinity
C) Presence of diverse plant species
D) Lack of oxygen
- 9. Which process is NOT associated with soil microbiology?
A) Nitrogen fixation
B) Photosynthesis
C) Denitrification
D) Decomposition
- 10. What role do earthworms play in soil microbiology?
A) Improve soil structure and nutrient cycling
B) Decrease soil aeration
C) Promote soil erosion
D) Increase soil compaction
- 11. What is the term used to describe the symbiotic relationship between plant roots and beneficial fungi?
A) Lichen
B) Mycorrhiza
C) Endophyte
D) Rhizome
- 12. How does soil microbiology affect plant health?
A) Reduces water availability
B) Promotes wilting
C) Improves nutrient uptake and disease resistance
D) Increases susceptibility to pests
- 13. Which process involves the conversion of nitrate (NO3-) to nitrogen gas (N2) by denitrifying bacteria?
A) Nitrogen fixation
B) Nitrification
C) Denitrification
D) Ammonification
- 14. Which process involves the conversion of ammonia (NH3) to nitrate (NO3-) by nitrifying bacteria?
A) Mineralization
B) Denitrification
C) Assimilation
D) Nitrification
- 15. What is the significance of soil microbiology in bioremediation?
A) Helps degrade pollutants and contaminants
B) Reduces soil aeration
C) Promotes soil salinization
D) Increases soil compaction
- 16. What is the term for the process by which plants release organic compounds through their roots to attract beneficial soil microbes?
A) Rhizodeposition
B) Photosynthesis
C) Decomposition
D) Respiration
|