The correct option is (a).
Explanation
Agricultural practices require specific tools known as agricultural implements for tasks such as soil preparation, sowing, weeding, and harvesting. The primary implements used for loosening and turning the soil include the plough, hoe, and cultivator.
Statement 1 is Correct:
A plough is used for tilling the soil, adding fertilizers, and removing weeds. It contains a strong triangular iron strip called the ploughshare. The main part of the plough is a long log of wood called the ploughshaft.
Statement 2 is Incorrect:
A hoe is a simple tool used primarily for removing weeds and for loosening the soil. It consists of a long rod of wood or iron with a strong, broad, bent plate of iron fixed to one end that works like a blade. It is not used exclusively for sowing seeds; sowing is typically performed using a seed drill or funnel.
Statement 3 is Incorrect:
A cultivator is a tractor-driven agricultural implement used for ploughing (tilling). The use of a cultivator saves both labour and time compared to traditional manual methods. It is not a manual tool, nor is it used for harvesting crops (which is done using a sickle or a harvester).
Key Takeaway:
The ploughshare is the specific iron component of a plough used for cutting soil, whereas a hoe is used for weeding and loosening soil, and a cultivator is a modern tractor-driven implement for tillage.