Study the farm implement illustrated below and answer the questions that follow.
a) Identify the farm implement illustrated.
(ii)Name the parts labelled I and II III IV in the diagram.
b) State one function of each of the parts labelled I, II, III and IV.
c) Mention the farm operation for which the illustrated implement is used.
d) List two farm tools that can perform similar functions as the illustrated implement.
e) State three ways of maintaining the illustrated implement.
Explanation
(a) (i) Identification of the farm implement
- Cultivator/Harrow /Spring-tine cultivator
(ii) Naming of the parts labelled I, II,III, IV
I – Point of attachment
II – Frame
III – Beam
IV – Tine
(b) Function of the parts labelled I, II, III and IV
I - The point of attachment to the tractor
- The point coupled to the tractor
II - (Frame) - Joined together carrying the beam and its components
III - (Beam) - Used for the attachment of the tine and its components
IV - (Tine) - For breaking soil clods
(c) Farm operations for which the cultivator is used
- for breaking up soil clods/lumps into smaller aggregates
- for loosening soil clods
- for levelling up ploughed field
- helps in dragging of roots and stones out of the soil
- can be used for fertilizing
- can be used for weeding
- helps in removal of weeds from soil surface
(d) Farm tools performing similar functions as the farm implement (cultivator)
- Garden fork
- Moisten with distilled water
- Hand fork
- Rake
- Hoe
(e) Maintenance of the farm implement (cultivator)
- Keep away from attack by termites
- Clean after each use/wash and dry
- Keep in a cool, dry place to avoid rusting
- Oil or grease before storage
- Straighten out bent prongs
- Ensure that knots, caps, screws are tight
- Replace worn out parts