Advanced Placement (AP) Human Geography Practice Exam

What characterizes swidden agriculture?

1. Static farming on a single plot of land

2. Crops grown in different fields on a rotating basis

3. A focus only on livestock farming

4. Advanced technology-driven agricultural practices

The correct answer is: Crops grown in different fields on a rotating basis

Swidden agriculture, also known as shifting cultivation or slash-and-burn agriculture, is characterized by a system in which farmers clear a piece of land by cutting down and burning vegetation before planting crops. This technique allows for the cultivation of crops in a systematic rotation, typically involving the use of different fields over time. The practice is fundamentally about rotating crops among multiple fields to maintain soil fertility and manage the ecological balance. After harvesting, the area may be left fallow for several years to allow the natural vegetation to regenerate, which plays a vital role in soil restoration. This method contrasts with static farming practices that rely on continuous planting in the same plot without restorative periods, emphasizing the cyclical and dynamic nature of swidden agriculture. In this context, the focus on rotating crops in relation to different fields highlights both the adaptability and sustainability aspects of this agricultural method, where biodiversity is encouraged through varied planting strategies over time.