Microtheme: Soils —
11 questions asked in Prelims in the past.

1. [2021] The black cotton soil of India has been formed due to the weathering of
   • (a) brown forest soil
   • (b) fissure volcanic rock
   • (c) granite and schist
   • (d) shale and limestone
   Correct Answer: (B) fissure volcanic rock
2. [2019] Consider the following statements:
   1. Agricultural soils release nitrogen oxides into environment.
   2. Cattle release ammonia into environment.
   3. Poultry industry releases reactive nitrogen compounds into environment.
   Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
   • (a) 1 and 3 only
   • (b) 2 and 3 only
   • (c) 2 only
   • (d) 1, 2 and 3
   Correct Answer: (D) 1, 2 and 3
3. [2018] With reference to agricultural soils, consider the following statements :
   1.A high content of organic matter in soil drastically reduces its water holding capacity.
   2.Soil does not play any role in the sulphur cycle.
   3.Irrigation over a period of time can contribute to the salinization of some agricultural lands.
   Which of the statements given above is/are correct ?
   • (a) 1 and 2 only
   • (b) 3 only
   • (c) 1 and 3 only
   • (d) 1, 2 and 3
   Correct Answer: (B) 3 only
4. [2014] In India, the problem of soil erosion is associated with which of the following?
   1. Terrace cultivation
   2. Deforestation
   3. Tropical climate
   Select the correct answer using the code given below:
   • (a) 1 and 2 only
   • (b) 2 only
   • (c) 1 and 3 only
   • (d) 1, 2 and 3 only
   Correct Answer: (B) 2 only
5. [2013] 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.
   • (a) 1, 2 and 3
   • (b) 2, 3 and 4
   • (c) 1 and 4
   • (d) 2 and 3 only
   Correct Answer: (C) 1 and 4
6. [2013] Which of the following adds/add nitrogen to the soil?
   (1). Excretion of urea by animals
   (2). Burning of coal by man
   (3). Death of vegetation
   Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
   • (a) 1 only
   • (b) 2 and 3 only
   • (c) 1 and 3 only
   • (d) 1, 2, and 3
   Correct Answer: (C) 1 and 3 only
7. [2013] Contour bunding is a method of soil conservation used in
   • (a) desert margins, liable to strong wind action
   • (b) low flat plains, close to stream courses, liable to flooding
   • (c) scrublands, liable to spread of weed growth
   • (d) None of the above
   Correct Answer: (D) None of the above
8. [2011] Salinization occurs when the irrigation water accumulated in the soil evaporates, leaving behind salts and minerals. What are the effects of Salinization on irrigated land?
   • (a) It greatly increases the crop production
   • (b) It makes some soils impermeable
   • (c) It raises the water table
   • (d) It fills the air spaces in the soil with water
   Correct Answer: (B) It makes some soils impermeable
9. [2010] When you travel in certain parts of India, you will notice red soil. What is the main reason for this colour ?
   • (a) Abundance of magnesium
   • (b) Accumulated humus
   • (c) Presence of ferric oxides
   • (d) Abundance of phosphates
   Correct Answer: (C) Presence of ferric oxides
10. [2010] Tamil Nadu is a leading producer of mill-made cotton yarn in the country what could be the reason?
    1. Black cotton soil is the predominant type of soil in the State.
    2. Rich pool of skilled labour is available.
    Which of the above is/are the correct reasons?
    • (a) 1 only
    • (b) 2 only
    • (c) Both 1 and 2
    • (d) Neither 1 nor 2
    Correct Answer: (B) 2 only
11. [2010] With reference to soil conservation, consider the following practices :
    1. Crop rotation
    2. Sand fences
    3. Terracing
    4. Wind breaks
    Which of the above are considered appropriate methods for soil conservation in India ?
    • (a) 1,2 and 3 only
    • (b) 2 and 4 only
    • (c) 1,3 and 4 only
    • (d) 1,2,3 and 4
    Correct Answer: (D) 1,2,3 and 4