1. Importance of Soil as a Resource
MCQs
1. Why is soil considered an important natural resource?
a) It supports plant growth
b) It provides habitat for organisms
c) It is essential for agriculture
d) All of the above
Answer: d) All of the above
Explanation: Soil is a vital resource that supports plant growth, provides habitat for organisms, and is essential for agriculture.
2. Which of the following factors play a role in soil formation?
a) Climate
b) Parent rock material
c) Time
d) All of the above
Answer: d) All of the above
Explanation: Soil formation is influenced by climate, parent rock material, vegetation, life forms, and time.
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2. Soil Formation
MCQs
3. What is the main agent responsible for the process of soil formation?
a) Wind and water
b) Temperature variations
c) Biological activity
d) All of the above
Answer: d) All of the above
Explanation: Soil is formed through weathering, biological activity, and climatic processes.
4. Which component of soil provides nutrients and fertility?
a) Sand
b) Humus
c) Gravel
d) Silt
Answer: b) Humus
Explanation: Humus is the organic component of soil that enhances fertility and retains moisture.
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3. Types of Soil in India
MCQs
5. Which type of soil is most commonly found in the northern plains of India?
a) Black soil
b) Laterite soil
c) Alluvial soil
d) Arid soil
Answer: c) Alluvial soil
Explanation: Alluvial soil is deposited by rivers and covers large areas of the northern plains.
6. Which soil type is known for its high moisture retention and is ideal for cotton cultivation?
a) Red soil
b) Black soil
c) Arid soil
d) Laterite soil
Answer: b) Black soil
Explanation: Black soil, also called regur soil, retains moisture well and is ideal for growing cotton.
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4. Soil Erosion and Degradation
MCQs
7. Which human activity is a major cause of soil erosion?
a) Deforestation
b) Terrace farming
c) Strip cropping
d) Shelterbelt planting
Answer: a) Deforestation
Explanation: Deforestation removes tree cover, exposing soil to erosion by wind and water.
8. What is the process of washing away of the topsoil called?
a) Soil erosion
b) Weathering
c) Humification
d) Leaching
Answer: a) Soil erosion
Explanation: Soil erosion is the removal of the topsoil layer by wind, water, or human activities.
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5. Soil Conservation Measures
MCQs
9. Which of the following methods helps in controlling soil erosion in hilly areas?
a) Terrace farming
b) Overgrazing
c) Slash-and-burn agriculture
d) Excessive irrigation
Answer: a) Terrace farming
Explanation: Terrace farming reduces soil erosion by slowing down water runoff in hilly regions.
10. What is the purpose of planting shelter belts?
a) To increase soil erosion
b) To reduce wind speed and protect soil
c) To prevent soil compaction
d) To increase deforestation
Answer: b) To reduce wind speed and protect soil
Explanation: Shelter belts help in reducing wind speed, thereby preventing soil erosion.
