Question

Given below are two statements: one is labelled as Assertion (A) and the other is labelled as Reason (R).
Assertion (A): Manure is an organic substance that is obtained from decomposition of vegetable and animal waste.
Reason (R): Manure is readily soluble in water thus it is absorbed by plants quickly.
In the light of the above statements, choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below:

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

Hint:

Manure is like a "Slow-Cooker" for soil. It takes time to break down and isn't a "quick fix" like water-soluble chemical fertilizers.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Concept: Manure is a traditional organic fertilizer used to improve soil fertility and structure. Its biological nature and physical properties differ significantly from synthetic chemical fertilizers.

Step 1: Evaluating the Assertion.
Assertion (A) is correct. By definition, manure is an organic material derived from the natural decomposition of plant (vegetable) and animal wastes. This process breaks down complex organic matter into simpler nutrients that enrich the soil.

Step 2: Evaluating the Reason (The Error).
Reason (R) is incorrect. Unlike chemical fertilizers (like Urea), manure is not readily soluble in water. Organic manure releases nutrients slowly over a long period as it continues to decompose in the soil. Because it is not immediately soluble, it is not absorbed by plants quickly; instead, it provides a "slow-release" nutrient source that also improves the soil's water-holding capacity.

Step 3: Conclusion.
Since the description of manure's origin is true but the claim about its solubility and absorption speed is false, option (3) is the correct choice.