Which one of the following is correct?
In humid tropical region, humus content is high in soil
Glacial till exhibits deep horizon
Humus accumulates in cold climate
In equatorial climates, humus content is high in soil
Answer is Right!
Answer is Wrong!
This question was previously asked in
UPSC Geoscientist – 2022
– B) Glacial till is unconsolidated glacial sediment and serves as a parent material for soil development. While soils *can* develop on till, the till itself doesn’t “exhibit deep horizons”; soil horizons (A, B, C) develop *within* the soil profile over time through pedogenic processes. Glacial action often mixes material rather than creating distinct deep horizons in the till layer itself. (Incorrect)
– C) In cold climates, low temperatures significantly slow down the rate of decomposition of organic matter by microorganisms. This leads to the accumulation of undecomposed or partially decomposed organic matter, forming a thicker layer of humus (or organic horizons like O horizon) on or in the soil. (Correct)
– D) Equatorial climates are humid tropical regions with rapid decomposition, leading to low humus content. (Incorrect, same reason as A).
– Cold climates slow down decomposition, promoting humus accumulation.
– Warm, humid climates accelerate decomposition, limiting humus accumulation.