Which of the following statement is correct? I. Khadar soil is more fertile than Bhangar soil. II. Laterite soils are the result of excessive leaching from heavy rainfall.
Both I and II
Analyzing Statements about Soil Types: Khadar, Bhangar, and Laterite Soils
Let's examine each statement provided in the question to determine its correctness.
Statement I: Khadar soil is more fertile than Bhangar soil.
This statement talks about two types of alluvial soils found in the Indo-Gangetic plains. Alluvial soils are formed by the deposition of silt, sand, and clay carried by rivers. They are generally very fertile.
- Bhangar soil: This is the older alluvial soil. It forms terraces on higher ground away from the current river course and flood plains. Bhangar soil is less fine and contains calcareous deposits locally known as 'kankar'. Since it is older and not replenished by floods every year, it is generally less fertile than Khadar soil.
- Khadar soil: This is the newer alluvial soil. It is found in the low-lying areas adjacent to rivers, within the flood plains. Khadar soil is deposited by floods almost every year. This annual deposition of fresh silt makes it very fine, nutrient-rich, and highly fertile.
Comparing Khadar and Bhangar soils, the regular deposition of new, fine sediment makes Khadar soil significantly more fertile than Bhangar soil. Therefore, Statement I is correct.
Statement II: Laterite soils are the result of excessive leaching from heavy rainfall.
This statement describes the formation process of Laterite soils. Laterite soils are typically found in areas that experience high temperatures and heavy rainfall.
- The high rainfall leads to a process called leaching. Leaching is the process where soluble minerals and nutrients in the upper layers of the soil are washed down to the lower layers or completely removed by percolating rainwater.
- In regions with heavy rainfall, this leaching is excessive. Base-rich cations and silica are removed, leaving behind iron and aluminum compounds in the topsoil.
- The accumulation of iron oxides gives Laterite soil its characteristic reddish color and hard, porous texture.
The formation of Laterite soils is indeed a direct result of intensive leaching caused by heavy rainfall in tropical and subtropical regions. Therefore, Statement II is correct.
Conclusion
Based on the analysis, both Statement I regarding the fertility of Khadar and Bhangar soils, and Statement II regarding the formation of Laterite soils through leaching, are correct statements.
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.
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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.
