Consider the following statements regarding soils: 1. Soils having a

Consider the following statements regarding soils:

1. Soils having a very high content of sodium and calcium and pH of more than 7.0 are alkaline soils.
2. Black cotton soil had developed on the Deccan basaltic lava under hot and humid conditions.
3. Laterite soils are characterised by a deep weathered layer from which silica has been leached.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct ?

1 only

1 and 2 only

2 and 3 only

1, 2 and 3

Answer is Right!

Answer is Wrong!

This question was previously asked in

UPSC NDA-1 – 2024

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Statement 1 is correct. Alkaline soils are defined as soils having a pH greater than 7. High content of base cations like sodium and calcium contribute to a higher pH, leading to alkaline conditions. Sodic soils (high sodium) and calcareous soils (high calcium carbonate) are common types of alkaline soils. Statement 2 is correct. Black cotton soil (Regur soil) is characteristic of the Deccan Trap region in India and is formed from the weathering of basaltic lava rocks under conditions including high temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons, which facilitates the formation of expansive clays and cracking. Statement 3 is correct. Laterite soils are formed through intense weathering and leaching in hot, humid climates with distinct wet and dry seasons. This process, called laterization or desilication, involves the removal of silica and bases, leaving behind a concentration of iron and aluminum oxides in a deep weathered layer.

Soil classification and properties are influenced by parent material, climate, topography, organisms, and time. Different soil types exhibit distinct physical, chemical, and biological characteristics.

Alkaline soils can pose challenges for agriculture due to potential nutrient deficiencies or toxicities at high pH levels. Black soils are known for their high clay content and moisture retention but can be difficult to cultivate when wet or dry. Laterite soils are often poor in nutrients due to intense leaching but can be used for crops like cashew, tapioca, and groundnut after appropriate management.

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