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Difficulty: MediumSoils, Natural Vegetation, and Agriculture in India

Consider the following statements regarding Red and Yellow soils in India:

1. They develop on crystalline igneous rocks in regions of low rainfall in the eastern and southern parts of the Deccan Plateau.
2. The reddish color of these soils is mainly attributed to a wide diffusion of iron oxide in crystalline and metamorphic rocks.
3. They are naturally rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and organic humus, making them highly fertile without chemical fertilizers.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

  1. 1 and 2 onlyAnswer
  2. B
    2 and 3 only
  3. C
    1 and 3 only
  4. D
    1, 2 and 3

Answer

Statements 1 and 2 are correct, while Statement 3 is incorrect.
The correct option identifies that Red soils develop on crystalline igneous rocks under low rainfall conditions and derive their reddish hue from diffused iron oxide, while correctly excluding the claim of high nitrogen and humus content.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze Statement 1 regarding origin and distribution
Red soil develops on crystalline igneous rocks in low rainfall tracts of the Deccan Plateau (e.g., Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, southeastern Maharashtra). Statement 1 is correct.
Verifies pedological origin and regional occurrence.
2
Analyze Statement 2 regarding color origin
The reddish color is caused by the diffusion of iron oxide in crystalline and metamorphic rocks. It looks yellow when it occurs in a hydrated form. Statement 2 is correct.
Verifies chemical composition responsible for coloration.
3
Analyze Statement 3 regarding chemical/nutrient composition
Red soils are generally deficient in nitrogen, phosphoric acid, organic matter (humus), and lime. They are typically poorly fertile unless supplemented with fertilizers and irrigation. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Verifies fertility profile and nutrient deficiencies.

Key Concept

Pedological characteristics, distribution, and nutrient profile of Red and Yellow soils in India
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Topics

Soils, Natural Vegetation, and Agriculture in India

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