Question

Identify the Soil with the Help of the Following Features.
(i) Red to Brown in Colour
(ii) Sandy in Texture and Saline in Nature
(iii) Lacks Humus and Moisture

Answer 1

Hint: The loose surface layer that covers the majority of the land is known as soil. It is made up of both inorganic and organic particles. Soil provides structural support for agricultural plants as well as a source of water and nutrients. The chemical and physical qualities of soils vary widely. Leaching, weathering, and microbial activity combine to create a diverse spectrum of soil types.

Complete answer:
Surface horizons in arid soils have various distinct properties. Desert pavement, for example, covers many arid soils and covers the vesicular A and E strata. Salt efflorescence covers other arid soils in situations where shallow groundwater has risen by capillary and evaporated at the surface.

The following are the key characteristics of arid soil:
- Arid soil is typically red or brown in colour, with a sandy texture.
- It is saline by nature. Evaporation occurs at a quicker rate because of the dry climate and high temperatures. This soil is deficient in humus and moisture.
- The lower horizon of this soil is occupied by ‘Kankar', which inhibits water infiltration due to the high calcium concentration.
- The soils have a high concentration of soluble salts. It also has a relatively low percentage of organic materials due to the arid climate and lack of flora.
- Because there is no rain to wash away soluble salts, the soil is alkaline.
- Drought-resistant and salt-tolerant dry crops such as barley, cotton, wheat, millets, maize, pulses, and others can be produced on these barren soils with the right fertilisers and irrigation.
- As in the case of western Rajasthan, these soils become cultivable after sufficient irrigation.
- Water deficiency is the most prominent feature of arid soils. The majority of arid soils contain enough water to support plant development for no more than 90 days. Calcium carbonates, gypsum, and sodium are all found in abundance in arid soils.
- Due to partial moisture content and accumulated soluble salts, this soil is usually unsuitable for large crop development. It can, however, become fruitful if properly managed and irrigated. We have some famous arid soils in the world that are notable for their distinctive fertility while being classified as arid soils.

Note: This soil, like the western sections of Rajasthan, becomes cultivable with proper irrigation. The infiltration of water is restricted in these soils, and the soil becomes dark and sandy in texture. This soil is also alkaline and has a high salt level.