Write short notes on the following sources of farm power:(a) Work animals; (b) Machine engines, (c) Water (d) Sun
Explanation
Short notes on: (a) Work animals as a source of farm power: (i) Work animals include bulls, horses, donkey, camels etc. (ii) These animals are used to perform certain farm operations like ploughing, ridging, etc. (iii) Some are used for transportation. (iv) Cost of maintaining the animals is high. (v) Diseases and poor handling of animals can lead to poor performance.
(b) Machines/engines (mechanical power) as a source of farm power: (i) It involves the use of modern implements like tractors, ploughs, harrow; ridger etc. (ii) It works faster and efficiently. (iii) It reduces labour cost and overall cost of production. (iv) It performs a wide range of farm operation. (v) Its capital investment is high.
(c) Water as a source of farm power: (i) It involves the use of water to generate power, e.g. Hydro-electric power, i.e, electricity. (ii) The power generated by water can be used to supply light to farms, provide heat and operate other farm equipment.
(d) Sun as a source of farm power: (i) This is the power derived from the sun ( or solar power). (ii) Energy stored from the sun can be used to power engines and tractors. (iii) The power is used by green plants for photosyn-thesis. (iv) It can be used to dry some food products. (v) Excess of power from the sun can cause evaporation or transpiration.