MasteryExams
Geography • Physical GeographyMedium

Which of the following describes the dominant soil type found across the steep, undulating hill slopes of Arunachal Pradesh, formed under conditions of high rainfall and dense sub-tropical evergreen forests?

A. Lateritic and acidic forest soils with high organic carbon but low base status✓ Correct Answer
B. Deep alluvial silt soils rich in calcium carbonate and potassium deposits
C. Arid saline soils characterized by high sodium content and high pH levels
D. Black cotton soils formed from the weathering of extensive basaltic lava flows

💡 Solution & Explanation

The soils of Arunachal Pradesh are predominantly acidic forest soils and lateritic types developed under heavy rainfall and dense vegetation, resulting in the leaching of soluble bases while accumulating organic matter in the surface layers. Alluvial soils are restricted to narrow river valleys and floodplains, while black soils are entirely absent as there are no basaltic traps in the region. These acidic soils require careful management for sustainable shifting cultivation and terraced farming practices.

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