Geography • Physical GeographyHard
In the context of tropical pedogenesis, which specific chemical and mineralogical transformation characterizes the deep lateritic profile development across the undulating midland topography of Kerala?
A. Incongruent dissolution of primary alumino-silicate minerals leading to absolute accumulation of insoluble secondary iron and aluminium oxides like goethite and gibbsite coupled with intense silica leaching✓ Correct Answer
B. Precipitation of soluble calcium carbonate horizons at shallow depths due to semi-arid evaporation regimes
C. Accumulation of thick organic peat layers resulting from continuous waterlogging and low temperatures in flat topographic basins
D. Mechanical illuviation of unaltered quartz sand grains down the soil profile under arid wind action
💡 Solution & Explanation
Laterization is a pedogenic process occurring under tropical climates with alternating wet and dry seasons, where intense leaching removes silica and soluble bases, leaving behind residual concentrations of insoluble iron and aluminium sesquioxides. Calcium carbonate accumulation is characteristic of pedocals in arid zones, not wet tropical laterites. Peat soils form under cool, waterlogged conditions rather than well-drained midland slopes. This leaching process gives Kerala laterites their distinctive reddish-brown color and acidic nature.
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