Economic Activities & Arable Farming

Flashcards covering economic activities in rural landscapes and the physical factors affecting arable farming.

Primary Sector

Includes agriculture, arable farming, livestock farming, forestry, and hunting, providing food and raw materials.

Arable land

Land used only for agriculture, distinct from industrial landscapes.

Agricultural Land

Land where agricultural activities like farming, livestock farming, forestry, and hunting take place.

Rural Land

Encompasses agriculture, the food industry, rural tourism, and second homes.

Climate (Physical Factor)

Temperature is crucial for plant growth; a minimum of 10°C is needed, and extremes can damage harvests. Rainfall is generally beneficial, but a lack thereof hinders crop development.

Relief (Physical Factor)

Altitude affects crop growth and sunlight exposure. South-facing slopes get more sunlight and are warmer, while north-facing slopes get less sunlight and are cooler. Plains/valleys at ≤200m are typically good agricultural land.

Soil (Physical Factor)

Soil quality is critical. A thick topsoil layer allows more root growth. Soil texture affects water retention: sand retains little water, clay becomes waterlogged. A sand/clay mixture is ideal.

Humus

Decomposed organic matter from animals/plants, created by microorganisms, that is essential for crops and fertile soil.

Humus Benefits

Enriches soil, retains water, prevents erosion.