Life Science Chapter 5 Section 5 Feeding The World Life Science Chapter 5 Section 5

Scientific Developments In laboratories scientists are developing Plants resistant to insects, disease and drought Plant that produce more food per plant Scientists in the field are developing Farming practices that are more efficient “High-tech” farming practices

Producing Better Plants Major sources of food on the planet Wheat Corn Rice Potatoes Genetic Engineering Process scientists alter organism’s genetic material to produce plants with qualities that people find useful Produce more food Resistant to insects Resistant to drought

Improving the Efficiency of Farms Precision farming Farmers use satellites to help guide tractors in planting and harvesting Use images to help determine water and fertilizer needs Computers analyze data to help farmers to make decisions Benefits Help save time and money Help farmers maintain ideal conditions on fields Benefits environment- correct amount of water and fertilizer used

Hydroponics A method where plants are grown in solutions of nutrients instead of soil. Nutrient rich water is pumped through gravel or sand Costly method of growing food crops Allows people to grow food in areas with poor soil