Question

Which of the following soils are rich in humus?
A. Sandy soil
B. Loamy soil
C. Clayey soil
D. Both A and B

Answer 1

Hint:-: Soil is a type of natural resource made up of mainly five ingredients, which are water, minerals, organic compounds, gas and living matter. Based on the characteristics, soil can be classified into different categories. The substances present in the soil determine which type of plants can be grown in it.

Complete step-by-step solution:-Soil is generally classified based upon the size of the particles present in it. Soil texture is the percentage of the particles of different sizes present in the soil. Organic matter present in the soil is mainly plants and animals dead-decay matter along with some other microbial residues. Some major types of soils are sandy soil, clayey soil, silted soil, peat soil, and loamy soil.
Clayey soil is a heavy soil in which the soil particles are very small. The soil particles are very tightly packed, so water remains in the soil for a longer period of time and does not drain fast. Also, this type of soil contains a high percentage of clay in it (more than 25%), and thus clay particles hold water for a long time. As the clayey soil drains very slowly, it takes longer time to get warmed in the summer and it makes the soil dry and crackly during the summers. Clayey soil is very fertile and has a high amount of humus in it as humus can easily mix with clay.
Thus the correct option is (C) Clayey soil.

Additional Information:
Sandy soil is very light and dry. The amount of nutrients present in sandy soil is usually less. It has a great amount of sand present in it along with a small amount of clay. It has a poor quality for growing plants and water holding capacity is also not good.
Loamy soil is a combination of sand, clay and silt. These soils are mixed together to overcome their negative qualities and to incorporate their beneficial qualities. This makes the soil fertile and rich in nutrients.


Note:- Due to the presence of a high amount of clay in the soil, clayey soil is sticky to touch in wet form. In dry form, it has a smooth texture. Clay is one of the heaviest and densest materials present in soil.