Question

Explain about Laterite Soil

Answer 1

Answer:

Laterite, soil layer that is rich in iron oxide and derived from a wide variety of rocks weathering under strongly oxidizing and leaching conditions. It forms in tropical and subtropical regions where the climate is humid

Answer 2

• These soils are formed in the areas with high temperature and high rainfall.

• Laterite soils do not retain moisture.

• Location :- Founded in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Assam etc.

• Structure :- Poor in organic matter, nitrogen, phosphate and calcium. These are generally acidic in nature.

• Major Crops :- This soil (not very fertile) is used in the cultivation of cotton, rice, wheat, pulses, tea, coffee, etc.

• This is also used in cashew-nut cultivation.

There are types of Laterite Soils based on their particles :-

(i) Deep Red Laterite : Have excess of iron oxide and potash but short of Kaolin (clay). Not fertile

(ii) White Laterite : The color is due to excess of kaolin. These soils lose fertility very quickly.

(iii) Underground Laterite : The upper parts are dissolved especially in iron which settles down below the upper layer. This makes the soils fertile.

• Other uses :- It is useful for making bricks because of presence of huge amount of iron.