Mouldboard, spelled M-O-U-L-D-B-O-A-R-D in British English, and M-O-L-D-B-O-A-R-D in American English, refers to the curved blade on a plow that turns over the soil. This word can be broken down into two parts - 'mould' and 'board'. The correct pronunciation of the word 'mouldboard' is /ˈməʊldbɔːd/ in British English and /ˈmoʊldbɔːrd/ in American English. This word is spelled differently in the two dialects due to differences in the preference for the usage of British or American English.
A mouldboard refers to the curved and flat surface of a plow or plough that is designed to turn over the soil in agriculture. It is a crucial part of the plow that facilitates the breaking and turning of the soil during the tilling process. The mouldboard is typically made of metal, such as cast iron or steel, and is attached to the main body of the plow.
The shape and design of the mouldboard play a vital role in how effectively it can turn over the soil. It is usually curved and has a convex shape, which allows it to cut through the soil smoothly. The upper part of the mouldboard, known as the share, is the section that initially contacts the soil. It cuts through the ground and breaks up the soil, while the rest of the mouldboard helps to lift and turn the soil over.
Mouldboards come in various sizes and shapes, depending on the type of plowing required. Different types of mouldboards are used for different soil conditions and purposes. For instance, some mouldboards are specifically designed for heavy or compacted soils to ensure efficient soil inversion, while others are more suitable for lighter soils. The angle and curvature of the mouldboard can be adjusted to optimize its performance in different soil conditions.
In summary, a mouldboard is an essential component of a plow or plough that helps turn over the soil during the tilling process. Its curved and flat surface efficiently breaks and lifts the soil, allowing for the preparation of fields for planting and other agricultural activities.
The word "mouldboard" originates from Middle English, derived from the Old English word "moldeborde". The term is a combination of "molde" (meaning "earth" or "soil") and "borde" (meaning "board" or "plank").