The correct answer is: a) Black soil
Black soil is a type of soil that is known for its water retentive properties and is suitable for growing cotton. It is also known as Chernozem soil. It is rich in organic matter and has a high water holding capacity. This makes it ideal for growing crops that require a lot of water, such as cotton.
Alluvial soil is a type of soil that is formed from the deposition of sediments by rivers and streams. It is a nutrient-rich soil that is well-drained. This makes it ideal for growing a variety of crops, including cotton.
Red soil is a type of soil that is formed from the weathering of igneous rocks. It is a low-nutrient soil that is not well-drained. This makes it less ideal for growing cotton than other types of soil.
Laterite soil is a type of soil that is formed from the weathering of limestone. It is a low-nutrient soil that is not well-drained. This makes it the least ideal type of soil for growing cotton.
In conclusion, black soil is the best type of soil for growing cotton. It is rich in organic matter, has a high water holding capacity, and is well-drained.