The correct answer is: a) Waterlogging
Contour farming and terracing are agricultural techniques that help to prevent waterlogging. Contour farming is a method of farming that involves planting crops in rows that follow the natural contours of the land. This helps to reduce runoff and erosion, and it also helps to improve water infiltration. Terracing is a method of farming that involves creating a series of raised beds on a slope. This helps to reduce the amount of water that runs off the land, and it also helps to improve water retention.
Waterlogging is a condition that occurs when soil becomes saturated with water. This can happen when there is too much rain, or when irrigation is not managed properly. Waterlogged soil can become anaerobic, which means that there is not enough oxygen for plant roots to grow. This can lead to plant death, and it can also make the soil more susceptible to erosion.
Contour farming and terracing can help to prevent waterlogging by reducing runoff and erosion. They can also help to improve water infiltration, which helps to keep the soil from becoming saturated.
The other options are incorrect because:
- Soil erosion is the process of soil being carried away by wind or water. Contour farming and terracing can help to prevent soil erosion by reducing runoff and erosion.
- Soil salinization is the process of salt accumulating in the soil. This can happen when irrigation water contains high levels of salt, or when there is not enough drainage. Contour farming and terracing can help to prevent soil salinization by reducing runoff and erosion, and by improving water infiltration.
- Loss of organic matter is the process of organic matter being lost from the soil. This can happen when the soil is disturbed, or when it is exposed to high temperatures or drought. Contour farming and terracing can help to prevent loss of organic matter by reducing soil disturbance, and by improving water infiltration.