Question

Match LIST I with LIST II
\[ \begin{array}{|l|l|} \hline \textbf{LIST I (Soil order)} & \textbf{LIST II (Characteristics)} \\ \hline A. \ \text{Spodosol} & I. \ \text{Granular and crumb} \\ B. \ \text{Oxisol} & II. \ \text{Lack of profile development} \\ C. \ \text{Mollisol} & III. \ \text{Humid climate} \\ D. \ \text{Zatisol} & IV. \ \text{High in iron} \\ \hline \end{array} \] Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

• A. A-II, B-I, C-IV, D-III
• B. A-III, B-IV, C-I, D-II
• C. A-IV, B-II, C-I, D-III
• D. A-IV, B-I, C-III, D-II

Hint:

Remembering a key feature for major soil orders is helpful: - \textbf{Mollisol} → `Mollic` epipedon (fertile, dark) → Grasslands - \textbf{Oxisol} → `Oxic` horizon → Highly weathered, iron oxides - \textbf{Spodosol} → `Spodic` horizon (ashy layer) → Coniferous forests - \textbf{Entisol} → `Recent` → No profile development

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Analyze each soil order and match it with its primary characteristic. (Note: "Zatisol" is likely a typo for Entisol).
- A. Spodosol: These are acidic forest soils, typically found in cool, humid climates where coniferous forests grow. This matches with III. Humid climate.
- B. Oxisol: These are intensely weathered soils of tropical and subtropical regions. The weathering process leaves them rich in iron and aluminum oxides, giving them a reddish color. This matches with IV. High in iron.
- C. Mollisol: These are fertile grassland soils. They are characterized by a thick, dark surface horizon rich in organic matter, which gives them a I. Granular and crumb structure, ideal for agriculture.
- D. Zatisol (assuming Entisol): Entisols are soils with little to no profile development. They are young soils that haven't had time to form distinct horizons. This matches with II. Lack of profile development.
Step 2: Compile the correct pairings.
The correct pairings are:
- A \(\rightarrow\) III
- B \(\rightarrow\) IV
- C \(\rightarrow\) I
- D \(\rightarrow\) II
This combination corresponds to option (B).