Which of the following agent(s) is (are) used to pull a plough? (1) Tractor (2) Bull (3) Man (4) Both (1) and (2)

Agricultural practices encompass a broad range of activities that contribute to the cultivation of crops and livestock management. One fundamental practice within this spectrum is ploughing, a method used for turning over the upper layer of soil to bring fresh nutrients to the surface, bury crop residues, and prepare the land for new seeds. While today's agriculture often employs advanced technologies, understanding the historical and current tools for ploughing provides insight into the evolution and ongoing innovations in farming techniques. Effective ploughing ensures optimal soil conditions, which is critical for plant growth and yield maximization. Modern practices have adapted to various environmental conditions and resource availability, promoting sustainable methods for food production. Additionally, by combining traditional techniques with new technologies, farmers can address challenges such as soil erosion and fertility loss, ultimately contributing to long-term agricultural sustainability.

The agents used for ploughing, such as tractors and bulls, are selected based on factors including farm size, topography, economic resources, and cultural practices. As the needs and capabilities of farms have diversified, so have the practices of ploughing, with conservation tillage and no-till farming becoming more prevalent to reduce soil disturbances and promote environmental health.

The tractor stands as a pivotal machine in modern agriculture, offering a versatile solution for a multitude of tasks across the farm. Its primary role is to provide a power source for various implements, including ploughs, which are attached and towed behind. Tractors dramatically enhance efficiency, allowing for faster field preparation with less manual labor, a crucial factor in large-scale farming operations.

Beyond ploughing, tractors are integral for tasks such as sowing seeds, applying fertilizers, and harvesting. They can be outfitted with specialized attachments like seed drills, sprayers, and combines, catering to the precise requirements of different crops and growing conditions. The mechanization that tractors bring to agriculture not only aids productivity but also contributes to better precision in farming practices, conserving resources, and reducing waste. The advancement of tractor technology, including automation and GPS, further refines these benefits, leading to smarter farming that can adapt to the challenges of a changing climate and growing global food demands.

Before the advent of mechanical engines, bulls were the primary power source for ploughing fields and other agricultural tasks. In many parts of the world, bulls continue to hold a significant role on the farm, particularly in places where traditional farming is practiced or where resources may not allow for the purchase and upkeep of tractors.

The use of animal labor for farming, such as oxen ploughing, has numerous advantages, including lower fuel costs and reduced carbon footprint, making it a more eco-friendly option compared to mechanical ploughing. Bulls are particularly suited to small plots of land, which may not be accessible to larger machinery. Moreover, these animals can provide farmers with additional resources, such as manure for fertilizer and after their working life, meat and hides. However, it's essential to balance the welfare of the animals with their work in farming, ensuring ethical and sustainable animal husbandry practices.