Farming Unit #2

Farming System

A system consisting of inputs, processes, and outputs that involves the production of agricultural goods.

Inputs

Resources used in farming, such as physical (natural) and human/economic factors.

Physical Inputs

Natural influences on farming, including climate, soil, and topography.

Human and Economic Inputs

Factors related to human resources and financial aspects in farming, including labor and market access.

MEDC (More Economically Developed Countries)

Countries where farm outputs usually exceed inputs, allowing for profit and reinvestment.

LEDC (Less Economically Developed Countries)

Countries where farm outputs often cover only subsistence needs, with little surplus for sale.

Commercial Farming

Farming aimed at producing crops or livestock for sale, ensuring that outputs exceed inputs.

Subsistence Farming

Farming where the produce is primarily for the farmer's own family, resulting in limited surplus.

Intensive Farming

A farming system characterized by high input and output per unit land area.

Extensive Farming

A farming system with a large land area in relation to input and output, often involving lower yields.

Shifting Cultivation

A form of subsistence farming where farmers move to new areas after soil fertility declines.

Plantation Agriculture

Commercial farming that concentrates on single crops, usually found in tropical regions.

Environmental Factors

Natural conditions influencing farming, like climate, rainfall, and soil quality.

Market Demand

Consumer need for agricultural produce, which can influence what farmers decide to grow.

Government control

The influence of laws, policies, or subsidies on agricultural practices and market conditions.

Organic Farming

A type of farming that avoids synthetic chemicals, focusing on sustainable practices.

Genetically Modified Crops

Crops that have been genetically engineered to improve yield or disease resistance.

Eutrophication

The process by which water bodies become overly enriched with nutrients, leading to plant growth that depletes oxygen.

CAP (Common Agricultural Policy)

An EU policy framework aimed at supporting farmers, ensuring food security, and managing agricultural markets.

Food Security

The state in which all people have physical and economic access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food.

Malnutrition

A condition that occurs when a person's diet does not provide adequate nutrients or calories.

Environmental Stewardship Scheme (ESS)

A program encouraging farmers to improve environmental quality while maintaining agricultural productivity.