Energy as mentioned in the previous article is the engine of all natural processes, and in agriculture its influence is fundamental and multifaceted, from the most basic processes such as photosynthesis to the most complex agricultural activities, energy plays a crucial role, then we mention some processes where solar energy intervenes:
- Photosynthesis: Solar energy is captured by plants through chlorophyll to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose, the essential food for plants and the base of the food chain.
- Temperature: Solar energy regulates the temperature of the soil and the air, influencing the germination of seeds, the growth of plants and the ripening of fruits.
- Evaporation and precipitation: Solar energy evaporates water from water bodies and the soil, forming clouds that subsequently discharge rain, essential for the growth of crops.
In agriculture, it can be said that another type of energy is used, such as, for example, the chemical energy stored in soil nutrients, fertilizers and food, provides the energy necessary for the growth and development of plants and animals, the mechanical energy used in agricultural activities, from soil preparation to harvesting, through machinery and tools, the electrical energy used in irrigation systems, greenhouse lighting, food processing and other agricultural tasks.
TEnergy can have an impact on agricultural processes such as plant growth since solar energy and the chemical energy of nutrients directly influence the growth of plants, determining their size, vigor and production, the development of crops thermal energy influences the duration of crop cycles, the quality of fruits and the resistance of plants to diseases, biomass production solar energy is converted into biomass through photosynthesis, forming the basis of animal and human nutrition and in the biogeochemical cycles, energy drives the cycles of water, carbon, nitrogen and other essential elements for life, maintaining soil fertility and the health of ecosystems.
At present, sudden climatic changes can affect some conditions within the production units, it can be generated, for example, by a change in the distribution of pests in the ecosystem and therefore, although it is an unsafe practice for biodiversity, producers apply synthetic pesticides once the pest is present. The ideal will be to manage these ecosystems by developing clean and renewable technologies, such as solar energy and bioenergy, offers the possibility of reducing dependence on fossil fuels and improving the sustainability of agriculture.
Dear readers in conclusion energy is a fundamental factor that influences all agricultural and natural processes of agriculture, understanding how energy works in agricultural systems is essential to develop more sustainable and climate resilient agricultural practices. By optimizing the use of energy and promoting the use of renewable sources, we can build a more sustainable and secure food system for future generations.
Thank you for reading our articles, until a next installment.
| Bibliographic references |
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- Abreu, L. (2011). Analysis and characterization of the energy and financial balance of a system in agroecological conversion. University of Matanzas ”Camilo Cienfuegos". Matanzas: Cuba.
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