Question

Given below are two statements : One is labelled as Assertion (A) and the other is labelled as Reason (R).
Assertion (A) : Cotton is grown in alluvial soils.
Reason (R) : Alluvial soils are very fertile.
In the light of the above statements, choose the correct answer from the options given below :

• A. Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is the correct explanation of (A)
• B. Both (A) and (R) are true but (R) is NOT the correct explanation of (A)
• C. (A) is true but (R) is false
• D. (A) is false but (R) is true

Hint:

Be careful with absolute vs. general statements. Just because cotton is "best" in black soil doesn't make its growth in alluvial soil "false." Always consider the broader geographical context in such questions.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Assertion-Reasoning questions evaluate the truth of individual statements and the causal relationship between them.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
1. Assertion (A): While cotton is famously grown in black soil (Regur soil) in Central India, it is also extensively grown in the highly fertile alluvial soils of Northern India (Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan). Thus, the statement that cotton is grown in alluvial soils is factually true.
2. Reason (R): Alluvial soil is indeed very fertile as it is formed by river deposits rich in minerals. This fertility is a primary reason why various crops, including cotton, are successfully grown in regions where these soils are found.
3. Relationship: The high fertility of the soil provides the necessary nutrients for the growth of the cotton plant, thus explaining why it is cultivated in those regions. Therefore, (R) correctly explains (A).
Step 3: Final Answer:
Both (A) and (R) are true, and (R) is the correct explanation of (A).