GED Science Practice

What is hydroponics?

1. a) An organic compound containing only carbon and hydrogen

2. b) A severe tropical cyclone usually with heavy rains and winds

3. c) A technique of growing plants (without soil) in water containing dissolved nutrients

4. d) Wetness in the atmosphere

The correct answer is: c) A technique of growing plants (without soil) in water containing dissolved nutrients

Hydroponics refers to a method of growing plants without the use of soil, using a nutrient-rich water solution instead. This technique allows for direct delivery of essential nutrients, enabling plants to grow in a controlled environment where factors such as pH, nutrient concentration, and light can be precisely managed. By eliminating soil, hydroponics can also reduce the risk of soil-borne diseases and pests, making it a popular choice for both commercial agriculture and home gardening. The increased accessibility to nutrients in a water-based system can often lead to faster growth rates and potentially higher yields compared to conventional soil-based cultivation. Understanding this method is important as it represents an innovative approach to agriculture that addresses some of the challenges associated with traditional soil farming, such as land degradation, soil fertility, and water scarcity.