The following text is about agricultural technology.
Precision agriculture uses GPS, sensors, and data analysis to optimize farming. Rather than treating entire fields uniformly, farmers can now apply water, fertilizer, and pesticides exactly where and in the amounts needed. Sensors monitor soil moisture and plant health in real time, while GPS-guided equipment ensures accurate application. Studies show precision methods can reduce input costs by 15-25% while maintaining or improving crop yields. This efficiency also means less chemical runoff entering streams and groundwater.
What is the main benefit of precision agriculture according to the text?
It requires farmers to purchase more equipment
It allows more efficient resource use with environmental benefits
It eliminates the need for fertilizers entirely
It works only for small farms
Correct Answer: B
Choice B is the correct answer. The text describes reduced input costs (15-25%), maintained yields, and "less chemical runoff"—both economic efficiency and environmental benefits.
- Evidence: Cost reduction, same yields, less pollution.
- Reasoning: Resource optimization helps wallet and environment.
- Conclusion: Efficiency with environmental benefits is the main advantage.
Choice A is incorrect because this is a cost, not a benefit. Choice C is incorrect because it optimizes fertilizer use, not eliminates it. Choice D is incorrect because farm size limitation isn't mentioned.