Question

Which of the following is not true of lateritic soils?

1) they can be sources of aluminum ore
2) they are commonly red in color from the presence of residual iron oxides and hydroxides
3) they typically are very fertile
4) they typically form in tropical environments
5) they have undergone intensive leaching by water

Answer 1

The statement that lateritic soils are 'typically very fertile' is not true. They are often infertile due to the intensive leaching and high levels of iron and aluminum oxides.

Step-by-step explanation:

The lateritic soils are typically associated with intensive weathering in tropical environments, rich in iron oxide and alumina, and are often considered sources of aluminum ore. They commonly exhibit a red color due to the presence of residual iron oxides and hydroxides. An important characteristic of lateritic soils is that they have undergone intensive leaching by water, which often leads to a significant reduction in soil fertility. Therefore, the statement that lateritic soils are 'typically very fertile' is not true. Their extensive leaching and the high prevalence of iron and aluminum oxides result in relatively low fertility compared to other soil types, making them challenging for agricultural use without proper management and soil improvement techniques.