SSC MTS 2024 PYQ — Question 52

SSC MTS - 30/10/2024 - (4:00 PM - 5:30 PM) • General Awareness • Q52

When the pH value of soils is more than 7.5, they are considered to be:

Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: D

Explanation

The Correct Answer is option 4   i.e. Alkaline soils.

Soils with a pH value greater than 7.5 are classified as alkaline soils. Such soils contain excess sodium, calcium, or magnesium carbonates, which increase their pH levels above neutral (pH 7). Alkaline soils often result from low rainfall and poor drainage conditions and can lead to nutrient deficiencies, especially of iron, manganese, and phosphorus. These soils may also have poor soil structure, affecting plant growth. To improve their fertility, amendments like gypsum and organic matter are often added to lower the pH and enhance nutrient availability for crops.

Other options :

  • Strongly acidic soils: pH below 5.5

  • Neutral soils: pH close to 7.0

  • Slightly acidic soils: pH between 6.0 and 6.9