Consider the following characteristics of a soil type: These soils c

Consider the following characteristics of a soil type:

  • These soils consist of various proportions of sand, silt and clay.
  • These soils contain adequate proportions of potash, phosphoric acid and lime.
  • These soils can be further classified on the basis of their age.

Identify the type of soil on the basis of the given characteristics.

Alluvial
Laterite
Arid
Black
This question was previously asked in
UPSC CDS-1 – 2023
Alluvial soils are formed by the deposition of sediment carried by rivers. These soils are typically a mixture of sand, silt, and clay in varying proportions, known as loam. They are generally rich in potash, phosphoric acid, and lime, making them very fertile. A key characteristic of alluvial soils, particularly in the Indo-Gangetic plains, is their classification based on age: Khadar (newer alluvium, renewed yearly by floods) and Bhangar (older alluvium, above flood level). This classification is a strong indicator for alluvial soils.
Alluvial soils are the most widespread and fertile soils in India, covering large parts of the northern plains and coastal regions. Their texture varies from sandy loam to clay.
Laterite soils are formed under conditions of high temperature and rainfall with alternating wet and dry periods, often deficient in nitrogen, potash, and lime. Arid soils are found in dry areas, characterized by sandy texture and often high salt content, poor in organic matter. Black soils (Regur) are rich in calcium carbonate, magnesia, potash, and lime but generally poor in nitrogen, phosphoric acid, and organic matter.
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