Soils of India — Set 3

Correct Answer: C. Red Soil

Red soil is formed by the weathering of ancient crystalline and metamorphic rocks like granite and gneiss. It covers most of the eastern and southern parts of the Deccan plateau. Its texture varies from sandy to loamy.

Correct Answer: A. Chambal Basin

The Chambal basin is famous for its badland topography caused by severe gully erosion. These deep gullies or ravines make the land unsuitable for cultivation. This process happens when running water cuts through clayey soils.

Correct Answer: D. Black Soil

Black soil is famous for its high clay content, which allows it to hold moisture for long periods. This characteristic is very beneficial for rain-fed crops like cotton and pulses. It swells and becomes sticky when it absorbs water.

Correct Answer: D. Phosphate

Arid soils have a high content of phosphates but are generally deficient in nitrogen. They are characterized by a high concentration of soluble salts. They can produce good yields if supplied with adequate water and fertilizer.

Correct Answer: B. Leaching

Leaching is the removal of dissolved materials from the soil by percolating water. In areas of heavy rainfall, silica is leached away, resulting in the formation of laterite soil. This soil is primarily composed of iron and aluminum oxides.

Correct Answer: A. Jammu and Kashmir

Karewas are lacustrine deposits (glacial clay) found in the Kashmir Valley. They are exceptionally fertile and famous for growing high-quality Saffron (Zafran). They also support orchards of almond and walnut.

Correct Answer: B. Laterite Soil

Laterite soils are found on the high-level plateaus and summits of the Eastern Ghats and Rajmahal hills. They result from extreme weathering under tropical conditions. They are generally poor in nutrients due to high leaching.

Correct Answer: D. Coastal and arid areas

Shelter belts involve planting rows of trees to check wind velocity and protect soil from wind erosion. This is highly effective in the desert regions of Rajasthan and coastal sandy areas. It helps in the stabilization of sand dunes.

Correct Answer: B. High humus in lower valleys

Forest soils in lower valleys are fertile and loamy with a high humus content due to leaf litter. However, on higher slopes, they tend to be acidic and poor in humus. Their properties vary significantly with the altitude.

Correct Answer: A. Black Soil

Maharashtra is the primary state in the Deccan Trap region, dominated by black soil. This soil is excellent for the textile industry because it supports massive cotton cultivation. It covers almost the entire state except for the coastal strip.