The correct answer is: c) Soil disturbance.
Zero tillage is a farming practice that minimizes soil disturbance by planting seeds directly into the previous year’s crop residue. This helps to conserve soil moisture, reduce erosion, and improve crop yields.
Pesticide use is not necessarily minimized by zero tillage, as herbicides may still be needed to control weeds. Fertilizer application may also be necessary, depending on the crop and soil conditions. Water use may be reduced or increased, depending on the climate and management practices.
Here is a brief explanation of each option:
a) Pesticide use: Pesticides are chemicals that are used to kill pests, such as insects, rodents, and weeds. Pesticide use can be harmful to the environment and to human health. Zero tillage can help to reduce pesticide use by reducing the need for herbicides to control weeds.
b) Fertilizer application: Fertilizers are chemicals that are used to provide nutrients to plants. Fertilizer application can be harmful to the environment if it is not done properly. Zero tillage can help to reduce fertilizer application by improving the efficiency of nutrient uptake by plants.
c) Soil disturbance: Soil disturbance is the disruption of the soil structure by tillage, which is the process of breaking up the soil with a plow or other implement. Soil disturbance can lead to erosion, loss of nutrients, and compaction. Zero tillage minimizes soil disturbance by planting seeds directly into the previous year’s crop residue.
d) Water use: Water use is the amount of water that is used for irrigation or other purposes. Water use can be a problem in areas where water is scarce. Zero tillage can help to reduce water use by improving the efficiency of water use by plants.