Read the following statements given below: a. The Bhangar soils are older Alluvium. b. The Bhangar soils are frequently inundated. c. The Bhangar soils are rich in concentration and nodules. d. The drier areas of Bhangar soils exhibit saline and alkaline efflorescence. Select the correct option:
a, c and d are true
Understanding Bhangar Soils: Characteristics and Properties
Bhangar soils are an important type of alluvial soil found in the Indo-Gangetic plain. These soils have distinct characteristics that differentiate them from other alluvial soil types like Khadar. Let's analyze the given statements about Bhangar soils to determine their accuracy.
Analysis of Statements about Bhangar Soils
Let's break down each statement:
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Statement a: The Bhangar soils are older Alluvium.
This statement is true. Bhangar refers to the older alluvial deposits. These soils are typically found in the higher reaches of the alluvial plains, away from the current floodplains of the rivers. They were formed by deposition in earlier geological periods.
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Statement b: The Bhangar soils are frequently inundated.
This statement is false. Bhangar soils are situated on terraces above the level of the annual floods. Due to their higher elevation compared to Khadar (newer alluvium), they are not frequently inundated by floodwaters. Khadar soils, located in the floodplains, are the ones that are frequently flooded.
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Statement c: The Bhangar soils are rich in concentration and nodules.
This statement is true. Over time, due to calcification processes, Bhangar soils develop calcareous concretions at lower levels. These concretions are rich in calcium carbonate and are locally known as 'kankar'. The presence of kankar nodules is a characteristic feature of Bhangar soils.
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Statement d: The drier areas of Bhangar soils exhibit saline and alkaline efflorescence.
This statement is true. In drier climatic regions, particularly in areas with poor drainage or high water tables, salts can be brought to the surface through capillary action. As the water evaporates, these salts accumulate on the surface, forming a white, powdery layer. This saline and alkaline efflorescence is often observed in drier tracts of Bhangar soils and is sometimes referred to as 'reh' or 'kallar'.
Summary of Findings
Based on the analysis:
- Statement a is true.
- Statement b is false.
- Statement c is true.
- Statement d is true.
Therefore, statements a, c, and d are true.
| Characteristic | Bhangar Soil | Khadar Soil |
|---|---|---|
| Age | Older Alluvium | Newer Alluvium |
| Location | Above flood level, away from river | Floodplain, near river |
| Flood Inundation | Not frequently inundated | Frequently inundated |
| Texture | Often clayey, more compact | Finer, silty/loamy |
| Kankar Nodules | Present (calcareous concretions) | Generally absent or very few |
| Fertility | Less fertile than Khadar (due to kankar and age) | More fertile (renewed annually by floods) |
Conclusion on Bhangar Soil Statements
Statements a, c, and d accurately describe the characteristics of Bhangar soils. Statement b is incorrect as Bhangar soils are located above the active floodplains and are not frequently flooded.
Revision Table: Bhangar Soil Facts
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Type | Older Alluvial Soil |
| Location | Terraces above flood level |
| Composition | Often clayey, contains kankar (calcareous nodules) |
| Flood Risk | Low (not frequently inundated) |
| Salinity/Alkalinity | Can exhibit efflorescence in dry areas |
Additional Information: Alluvial Soils in India
Alluvial soils are the most widespread soil type in India, covering large areas of the northern plains and coastal regions. They are formed by the deposition of silt, sand, and clay carried by rivers. Alluvial soils are generally fertile, but their composition and characteristics vary depending on the region and the age of the deposits.
- Formation: Deposited by rivers, forming plains and deltas. * Distribution: Found extensively in the Indo-Gangetic-Brahmaputra plain, Narmada, Tapti, Mahanadi, Godavari, Krishna, and Kaveri river valleys. * Fertility: Usually rich in potash but poor in phosphorus. Fertility varies from region to region. * Types: Broadly classified into Khadar (new alluvium) and Bhangar (old alluvium) based on age and location relative to floodplains. * Crops: Suitable for a wide range of crops like wheat, rice, sugarcane, jute, cotton, and pulses.
Important Questions from Biogeography
Alluvial soils vary in nature from sandy loam to clay. They are generally
The vegetation of savannah consists of grassland with scattered small trees, but extensive areas have no trees. The forest development in such areas is generally kept in check by one or more or a combination of some conditions. Which of the following are such conditions?
1. Burrowing animals and termites
2. Fire
3. Grazing herbivores
4. Seasonal rainfall
5. Soil properties
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
“Leaf litter decomposes faster than in any other biome and as a result the soil surface is often almost bare. Apart from trees, the vegetation is largely composed of plant forms that reach up into the canopy vicariously, by climbing the trees or growing as epiphytes, rooted on the upper branches of trees.” This is the most likely description of
Black soil is also known as 'Black _____ Soil'.
Which of the following statement is not correct?
I. Laterite soil is useful for growing tea and coffee.
II. Laterite soils are formed in areas of high temperature and heavy rainfall.
