Which Indian soil term is correctly associated with course, basin or associated feature “it commonly contains varying proportions of sand, silt and clay”, and also with “it supports crops such as rice, wheat, sugarcane and jute”?

Correct Answer: Option C — Alluvial Soil. Alluvial Soil is correctly identified as it commonly contains varying proportions of sand, silt and clay. Alluvial Soil is also associated with it supports crops such as rice, wheat, sugarcane and jute. Another identifying fact about Alluvial Soil is that it commonly contains varying proportions of sand, silt and clay. A further exam-relevant fact about Alluvial Soil is that it supports crops such as rice, wheat, sugarcane and jute. Why the other options are incorrect: • Option A — Black Soil: Black Soil is it develops deep cracks during the dry season. It is incorrect here because Black Soil is instead associated with its high moisture retention makes it especially suitable for cotton. • Option B — Red and Yellow Soil: Red and Yellow Soil is it forms largely from weathering of ancient crystalline rocks. It is incorrect here because Red and Yellow Soil is instead associated with it is generally deficient in nitrogen, phosphorus and humus. • Option D — Laterite Soil: Laterite Soil is it is often rich in iron and aluminium oxides but poor in humus. It is incorrect here because Laterite Soil is instead associated with with manuring it can support tea, coffee, rubber and cashew. Exam Takeaway: Connect Alluvial Soil with “it commonly contains varying proportions of sand, silt and clay” and “it supports crops such as rice, wheat, sugarcane and jute” for revision.