Category: A

acid soil: Soil which has a pH value of 6 or less. Farming tends to make the soil more acid, but most farm crops will not grow well if the soil is very acid. This can be cured by applying one of the materials commonly used for adding lime, such as ground chalk or limestone. Understanding soil pH management helps farmers maintain healthy soil for optimal crop production.

agglutination: A process in which cells come together to form clumps. For example, agglutination takes place when bacterial cells are in the presence of serum or affects blood cells when blood of different types is mixed. Knowing about agglutination helps farmers manage animal health and diagnose diseases.

additive: A chemical which is added to food to improve its appearance or to keep it fresh. Farmers need to understand the role and regulations of additives in animal feed and food production.

Agricultural and Food Research Council: Formerly, a council established to organize and provide funds for agricultural and food research. It was replaced by the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council in 1993. Abbr AFRC. Farmers benefit from research funded by councils like AFRC to improve their practices and productivity.

analysis: The process of examining something in detail. The process of breaking down a substance into its parts in order to study them closely. Samples of material were removed for analysis. Understanding analysis helps farmers make informed decisions about crop and livestock management.

acreage: The area of a piece of land measured in acres. Knowing the acreage of their land helps farmers plan crop rotations and manage resources effectively.

Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service: An organization which advises on employment disputes and rights in the workplace. Abbr ACAS. Farmers can benefit from ACAS guidance to resolve labor issues and maintain fair employment practices.

agribusiness: A large-scale farming business run along the lines of a conventional company, often involving the processing, packaging, and sale of farm products. Farmers can learn from agribusiness practices to scale up their operations and improve efficiency.

ad lib feeding: The unrestricted supply of feed, day and night. Implementing ad lib feeding can improve growth rates and productivity in livestock.

alpha amylase: An enzyme present in wheat seed, which changes some starch to sugar. Excessive amounts can result in loaves of bread with sticky texture. Managing alpha amylase levels helps farmers ensure the quality of wheat and bakery products.