In the soil-forming regime, which one of the following occurs in a reg

In the soil-forming regime, which one of the following occurs in a region where evapotranspiration exceeds precipitation significantly ?

Calcification

Laterization

Podsolization

Gleization

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UPSC NDA-1 – 2023

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Soil-forming regimes are characteristic processes that occur in specific environmental conditions (primarily climate and vegetation) and lead to the development of different soil types. A region where evapotranspiration significantly exceeds precipitation is characterized by a dry climate, typical of arid or semi-arid environments.

– Calcification: Occurs in arid/semi-arid regions where precipitation is insufficient to leach soluble salts, particularly calcium carbonate, from the soil profile. Calcium accumulates in the upper horizons or forms a hardpan (caliche) due to upward capillary movement of water followed by evaporation.
– Laterization: Occurs in hot, humid climates with high rainfall, leading to intense leaching and accumulation of iron and aluminum oxides.
– Podsolization: Occurs in cool, humid climates, typically under coniferous forests, resulting in the leaching of iron, aluminum, and organic matter from upper horizons and their accumulation in lower horizons.
– Gleization: Occurs in waterlogged, anaerobic conditions, leading to the reduction of iron and characteristic grey/blue colours and mottles.

In regions where evapotranspiration exceeds precipitation, there is a net upward movement of water through capillary action in the soil profile. This water often carries dissolved minerals, including calcium. As the water evaporates at or near the surface, the dissolved minerals are left behind, leading to their accumulation. This process of calcium carbonate accumulation is known as calcification, which is characteristic of soils in dry climates.

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