India has a wide variety of soils, each with its own characteristics and crops suited for cultivation. Which type of soil is found extensively in Maharashtra and is ideal for cotton cultivation due to its moisture-retentive capacity?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
Solution: The correct answer is Black Soil.
Explanation:
☛ Black soil, also known as Regur soil or Black Cotton Soil, is extensively found across the Deccan Trap (Basalt) region, particularly covering most of Maharashtra, parts of Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, and Andhra Pradesh.
☛ This soil is formed by the weathering of basaltic lava rocks.
☛ It has an extremely high moisture-retentive capacity due to its high clay content.
☛ During the dry season, black soil develops wide, deep cracks, which helps in proper aeration—a characteristic commonly referred to as 'self-ploughing'.
☛ It is chemically rich in calcium carbonate, magnesium, potash, and lime, but generally poor in phosphorus, nitrogen, and organic matter.
Extra Exam-Relevant Facts:
☛ Alluvial Soil: It is the most widespread soil in India, covering about 40–45% of the country's total land area, primarily in the northern plains and river valleys.
☛ Red Soil: It develops on crystalline igneous rocks and appears red due to the presence of ferric oxide; it turns yellow when it occurs in a hydrated form.
☛ Laterite Soil: It forms under conditions of high temperature and heavy rainfall through the process of intense leaching; it is widely used for cultivating tea, coffee, and cashew nuts.
Important One-Liners for Upcoming Exams:
☛ Which soil exhibits the phenomenon of 'self-ploughing' due to deep cracks formed during dry weather? → Black Soil (Regur Soil)
☛ Which soil group occupies the largest geographical area in India? → Alluvial Soil
☛ Khadar (new) and Bhangar (old) are classifications of which soil? → Alluvial Soil
☛ Which soil type is most suitable for cashew nut cultivation in India? → Laterite Soil
☛ The red colour in Red Soil is primarily due to the diffusion of which element? → Iron (Ferric Oxide)