Foundations of Agricultural Sciences 2 (AGRI10046)

Undergraduate level 1Points: 12.5On Campus (Parkville)

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Overview

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Semester 2
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This subject, which builds on concepts and knowledge introduced in AGRI10045 Foundations of Agricultural Science 1, aims to provide Bachelor of Agriculture students with an understanding of the underpinning enabling physical sciences, as they relate to agricultural systems. Concepts in physics, chemistry, mathematics and data management will be introduced in the context of the science of earth and soil, water and climate, and plant and animal biology. In particular, this subject introduces students to important underpinning principles in physics and chemistry, in the context of water, solutions, soils and cells. Topics include fluid movement and mechanics, solubility, precipitation reactions, redox reactions and galvanic cells, acid base reactions, salinity and conductivity. The chemistry of selected elements will be discussed in the context of both soils and cells.

Intended learning outcomes

This subject should enable students to understand the importance of physical and chemical principles as the foundations of agricultural sciences, and should develop their capacity to:

  • Apply an understanding of key concepts in physics and chemistry to describe fundamental processes such as solubility, precipitation, conductivity, redox reactions, cation exchange capacity, capillarity, surface tension, evaporation
  • Understand and explain the physics principles of fluids and thermal physics
  • Apply principles in physics and chemistry using logical reasoning, together with appropriate mathematical reasoning, to a variety of familiar and novel situations and problems in agricultural sciences
  • Integrate the use of numerical data, graphical analysis, basic statistics, and mapping, to represent and interpret events in the natural world

Generic skills

A student who completes this subject should be able to:

  • Explain their understanding of fundamental principles in chemistry, physics and data management and their application in agricultural contexts lucidly, both in writing and orally
  • Acquire and interpret experimental data
  • Participate as an effective member of a group in tutorial discussions, and study groups
  • Think independently and analytically, and direct his or her own learning; and manage time effectively in order to be prepared for regular tutorial classes, tests and the examination

Last updated: 17 March 2025