Which of the following statements about black soil is INCORRECT?
It is rich in phosphoric content.
Understanding Black Soil Properties and Characteristics
Black soil, also known as Regur soil, is a type of soil found in India. It is well-known for certain distinct properties. The question asks us to identify the statement that is INCORRECT regarding black soil.
Analyzing Statements about Black Soil
Let's examine each statement:
-
Statement 1: It is found along the Deccan trap.
This statement is generally correct. Black soils are predominantly found in the Deccan trap region, which covers parts of Maharashtra, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, and northern Karnataka. They are believed to have formed from the weathering of basaltic rock of volcanic origin.
-
Statement 2: It is rich in phosphoric content.
This statement is incorrect. While black soils are rich in certain minerals like lime, iron, magnesia, alumina, and also contain potash, they are typically deficient in nitrogen, phosphorus, and organic matter. Being rich in phosphoric content is not a characteristic of black soil.
-
Statement 3: It has a good capacity to hold moisture.
This statement is correct. Black soils are known for their high clay content. This clayey texture gives them an excellent capacity to retain moisture over long periods, which is beneficial for crops, especially during dry spells.
-
Statement 4: It develops deep cracks during hot weather.
This statement is also correct. Due to their high clay content and moisture-holding capacity, black soils swell considerably when wet. When they dry out in hot weather, they shrink, causing deep and wide cracks to appear. This self-ploughing characteristic helps in aeration.
Identifying the Incorrect Statement
Based on the analysis, the statement that is INCORRECT about black soil is that it is rich in phosphoric content. Black soils are known to be deficient in phosphorus, along with nitrogen and organic matter.
Summary of Black Soil Properties
Here is a quick summary of key black soil characteristics:
- Found in Deccan Trap region.
- High clay content.
- Excellent moisture retention.
- Develops deep cracks on drying.
- Rich in lime, iron, magnesia, alumina, potash.
- Deficient in nitrogen, phosphorus, organic matter.
Revision Table: Black Soil Facts
| Property | Description (True/False) |
|---|---|
| Location (Deccan Trap) | True |
| Phosphoric content | Low (Statement "rich in phosphoric content" is False) |
| Moisture retention | High (True) |
| Cracking in hot weather | Yes (True) |
Additional Information on Black Soils
Black soils are very fertile, especially suitable for growing cotton, sugarcane, jowar, tobacco, wheat, and oilseeds. The self-ploughing characteristic helps in cultivation. However, working with black soil is difficult as it becomes sticky when wet and hard when dry. Therefore, cultivation is often done immediately after the first shower or when the soil is still moist.
Important Questions from Soils
Which of the following statements regarding Regur soil is/are correct?
1. It is a light coloured, clayey and fertile soil.
2. It is developed on Deccan basaltic lava under hot and humid conditions.
3. Cotton is extensively cultivated in this soil.
Select the answer using the code given below:
Which one of the following soils is ideal for growing cotton?
Which one of the following is an organic soil?
The term 'Regur' is used to mean;
Fertile riverine alluvial soil is best suited for producing ________.
