The correct answer is: b) Midland regions.
Laterite soil is a type of soil that is rich in iron and aluminum oxides. It is formed in tropical and subtropical regions with a high rainfall and a pronounced dry season. The high rainfall causes the leaching of silica and other bases from the soil, leaving behind a residue of iron and aluminum oxides. The dry season causes the soil to crack, which exposes the iron and aluminum oxides to the air, where they oxidize and form laterite.
Laterite soil is most common in midland regions because these regions have the right combination of climate and geology to form laterite. The climate is tropical or subtropical, with a high rainfall and a pronounced dry season. The geology is characterized by the presence of rocks that are rich in iron and aluminum oxides.
Laterite soil is not as fertile as other types of soil, but it is still suitable for agriculture. It is also used in the construction of roads and buildings.
Here is a brief explanation of each option:
- a) Coastal regions: Laterite soil is not as common in coastal regions because the high rainfall and the salty air from the ocean can leach the nutrients from the soil.
- b) Midland regions: Laterite soil is most common in midland regions because these regions have the right combination of climate and geology to form laterite.
- c) Highland regions: Laterite soil is not as common in highland regions because the cooler climate and the lower rainfall do not favor the formation of laterite.
- d) River deltas: Laterite soil is not as common in river deltas because the sediment deposited by the river can bury the laterite soil.