Correct Answer: Option C) 1 & 3
Laterite soils are an important soil type found in tropical regions, particularly in parts of India.
Laterite soils are rich in aluminum and iron oxides - True. Laterite soils are characterized by their high concentration of iron and aluminum oxides. These are formed through intense weathering processes in tropical climates that cause silica to be leached away, leaving behind these metal oxides which give laterite soils their typical reddish or yellowish color.
They are well suited for growing rice and wheat in high rainfall areas - False.Laterite soils are generally not well suited for growing rice and wheat. They are often acidic, have poor fertility, and tend to harden during dry seasons. They lack essential nutrients needed for crops like wheat and rice. These soils are better suited for crops like cashew, rubber, tea, coffee, and pineapple that can tolerate acidic conditions.
They are formed due to leaching in tropical conditions - True.Laterite soils are indeed formed due to intense leaching processes in tropical and subtropical regions. The high rainfall and temperature in these areas cause extensive leaching of silica and soluble bases from the soil, leaving behind iron and aluminum oxides. This process, known as laterization, is characteristic of tropical weathering conditions.
