HSC Agriculture Practice Exam

Organic farming is defined as a method of agriculture that prioritizes the use of natural processes and materials, specifically avoiding synthetic chemicals. This approach emphasizes sustainability, environmental health, and biodiversity. By steering clear of synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, and genetically modified organisms (GMOs), organic farming aims to maintain soil health, promote ecological balance, and foster a more holistic relationship between food production and the environment.

The essence of organic farming lies in its commitment to cultivating crops and raising livestock in ways that align with natural systems. For instance, it often involves practices such as crop rotation, composting, and the use of natural pest control methods. This results in food products that are not only healthier for consumers but also less harmful to ecosystems.

In contrast, options that suggest the inclusion of synthetic chemicals, a focus on monoculture, or the use of GMOs do not align with the principles of organic farming. Organic methods intentionally seek to avoid these practices in favor of promoting biodiversity and ecological integrity. Therefore, defining organic farming as a method that avoids synthetic chemicals captures the fundamental principles that differentiate it from conventional agricultural practices.