Formation of laterite soil requires

Question

Accepted Answer

Laterite soil formation requires **high temperature and heavy rainfall** (Option 2) because:

*   **High Temperature:** High temperatures are crucial for the chemical weathering processes involved in laterization. The heat accelerates the leaching of silica and bases from the soil.

*   **Heavy Rainfall:** Abundant rainfall is essential for the leaching process. The heavy rainfall washes away the soluble components like silica, lime, and potash, leaving behind oxides of iron and aluminum. This process is known as laterization. The iron and aluminum oxides give laterite soil its characteristic reddish color.

Now, let's explain why the other options are incorrect:

*   **Option 1: High temperature and low rainfall:** Low rainfall would not provide sufficient water to leach away the silica and other soluble bases. Laterization requires significant water movement through the soil profile.

*   **Option 3: Low temperature and low rainfall:** Low temperatures slow down the chemical weathering processes, and low rainfall would not facilitate the necessary leaching. Laterization is a process favored by warm, humid conditions.

*   **Option 4: Low temperature and moderate rainfall:** While moderate rainfall might contribute to some weathering, the low temperature would still hinder the overall process of laterization. The process requires high temperatures to accelerate the chemical reactions.