Question

how does contour plowing help in soil conservation?
it leaves the soil bare and dry to maximize the amount of water absorption.
it plows along the contour of the hill to reduce water runoff and erosion.
it plows across the slope of the land to increase the rate of water runoff.

Explanation:

Contour plowing is a soil conservation method. Plowing along the hill's contour slows water flow, reducing runoff and soil erosion. Leaving soil bare (first option) is bad for conservation. Increasing water runoff (third option) is contrary to conservation goals. Only the second option correctly describes contour plowing's soil - conservation mechanism.

Answer:

It plows along the contour of the hill to reduce water runoff and erosion.