Which is correct about "Terra rossa" soil? Select the correct answer using the code given below :
(a) It is reddish in colour.
(b) It is a well drained soil.
(c) Its pH is neutral.
Code :

Question

Which is correct about "Terra rossa" soil? Select the correct answer using the code given below : 
(a) It is reddish in colour. 
(b) It is a well drained soil. 
(c) Its pH is neutral.
Code :

Accepted Answer

Here's a detailed explanation justifying why Option 4 is the correct answer:

**Why Option 4: (a), (b) and (c) are correct, is the correct answer:**

*   **(a) It is reddish in colour:** Terra rossa soil gets its name ("red earth" in Italian) from its characteristic reddish color. This color is due to the high concentration of iron oxides (specifically, hematite) present in the soil. These iron oxides are formed through the weathering of iron-rich parent materials, such as limestone, in the presence of oxygen. Therefore, statement (a) is factually correct.

*   **(b) It is a well-drained soil:** Terra rossa soils typically develop in karst landscapes, which are characterized by fractured and porous bedrock (often limestone). This underlying geology allows for excellent drainage. Water readily percolates through the soil profile and into the underlying rock formations. The good drainage is a key characteristic of terra rossa soils. Therefore, statement (b) is factually correct.

*   **(c) Its pH is neutral:** While the pH of soils can vary, Terra Rossa soil typically exhibits a neutral pH. This is because the parent material is limestone, which is rich in calcium carbonate. Calcium carbonate acts as a buffering agent, helping to maintain a neutral pH. Therefore, statement (c) is factually correct.

**Why other options are incorrect:**

*   **Option 1: Only (a) and (b) are correct:** This is incorrect because statement (c) is also correct. Terra rossa soil typically has a neutral pH.

*   **Option 2: Only (a) and (c) are correct:** This is incorrect because statement (b) is also correct. Terra rossa soil is well-drained.

*   **Option 3: Only (b) and (c) are correct:** This is incorrect because statement (a) is also correct. Terra rossa soil is reddish in color.

Since all three statements (a), (b), and (c) are accurate descriptions of Terra rossa soil, Option 4 is the only option that correctly identifies all the true statements.