Question

Consider the following statements:

1. Red soil appears yellow when hydrated.

2. Red soils are formed on metamorphic rocks under high rainfall.

3. Red soils are rich in humus and nitrogen.

• A. 1 only
• B. 1 & 2
• C. 2 & 3
• D. All are correct

Answer 1

Answer:

A. 1 only

• Correct Answer: Option A - 1 only

• Statement 1: Red soil appears yellow when hydrated - This statement is Correct. Red soils get their characteristic reddish color from iron oxide (particularly ferric oxide). When these soils become hydrated (contain water), the iron compounds can change form, giving the soil a yellowish appearance. This is a known property of red soils.

• Statement 2: Red soils are formed on metamorphic rocks under high rainfall - This statement is Incorrect. Red soils typically develop in areas with moderate to low rainfall, not high rainfall. They are commonly found in regions with hot and dry climate conditions with seasonal rainfall. In areas with high rainfall, leaching (washing away of nutrients) would be more extensive, typically resulting in different soil types like laterite soils.

• Statement 3: Red soils are rich in humus and nitrogen - This statement is Incorrect. Red soils are generally poor in organic matter (humus), nitrogen, phosphorus, and lime. They are deficient in nutrients due to leaching and erosion processes. What red soils are actually rich in are iron compounds, which give them their characteristic color.