Which of the following statements regarding laterite soils of India are correct ?1. They are generally red in colour.2. They are rich in nitrogen and potash.3. They are well-developed in Rajasthan and UP.4. Tapioca and cashew nuts grow well on these soils.Select the correct answer using the codes given below :
✓ Correct answer: c) 1 and 4
ExplanationStatement 1 is correct : The distinctive red colour is one of the key characteristics of laterite soils.It appears red due to the high concentration of iron oxides.In tropical climates, heavy rainfall causes intense leaching, washing away silica and other bases while leaving behind iron and aluminum oxides, which give the soil its distinctive red color.Statement 2 incorrect : Laterite soils are poor in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potash (potassium).The intense leaching caused by heavy rainfall in tropical regions washes away these soluble nutrients.Statement 3 is incorrect : Laterite soils are primarily found in the humid tropical regions of India, such as the Western Ghats, parts of Eastern Ghats, and some northeastern states.Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh (UP) have a drier climate which is not suitable for the formation of laterite soils.Statement 4 is correct : The agro-climatic conditions of lat- erite soils support the cultivation of crops such as tapioca, ca- shew nuts, groundnut, coffee, and rubber.These crops are well-adapted to the moisture-retaining and nutrient-poor nat
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