Paper 1 structured question: Managing soil erosion
Method
Method to Investigate Soil Erosion Reduction by Contour Ploughing
The farmer sets up two plots on a hillside: one ploughed along the contour lines and one ploughed up and down the slope. After heavy rain, the amount of soil lost from each plot is measured by collecting sediment in traps at the bottom of each plot.
| Plot type | Soil loss (kg) |
|---|---|
| Contour ploughed | |
| Up and down slope ploughed |
- a[1]
Identify the independent variable in this investigation.
Aim for approximately 1 distinct marking point.
- b[1]
Identify the dependent variable in this investigation.
Aim for approximately 1 distinct marking point.
- c[1]
Suggest one control variable that should be kept the same to ensure a fair test.
Aim for approximately 1 distinct marking point.
- d[2]
Describe how the farmer could improve the reliability of the results.
Aim for approximately 2 distinct marking points.
