- They are generally red in colour.
- They are rich in nitrogen and potash.
- They are well-developed in Rajasthan and UP.
- Tapioca and cashew nuts grow well on these soils.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1, 2 and 3
(b) 2, 3 and 4
(c) 1 and 4
(d) 2 and 3 only
Answer: (c)
Statement 1 is correct: Laterite has been derived from the Latin word ‘Later’ which means brick. They are generally red in colour. The laterite soils develop in areas with high temperatures and high rainfall. These are the result of intense leaching due to tropical rains. With rain, lime and silica are leached away, and soils rich in iron oxide and aluminium compounds are left behind. Humus content of the soil is removed fast by bacteria that thrive well in high temperatures.
Statement 2 is not correct: These soils are poor in organic matter, nitrogen, phosphate and calcium while iron oxide and potash are in excess. Hence, laterites are not suitable for cultivation.
Statement 3 is not correct: These soils have mainly developed in the higher areas of the Peninsular plateau. The laterite soils are commonly found in Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Madhya Pradesh and the hilly areas of Odisha and Assam.
Statement 4 is correct: Application of manures and fertilisers are required for making the soils fertile for cultivation. Red laterite soils in Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Kerala are more suitable for tree crops like Tapioca and cashew nut. Laterite soils are widely cut as bricks for use in house construction