Question:

Given below are two statements:
Statement (I) : The soil temperature is measured near the surface of the soil.
Statement (II) : Favorable soil temperature for nutrient absorption is \(37\text{--}42^{\circ}\text{C}\).
In light of above statements, choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below:

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Remember that high biological activity (including root uptake and nitrification) peaks around \(25\text{--}30^{\circ}\text{C}\). Temperatures above \(35^{\circ}\text{C}\) cause heat stress.
  • Both Statements (I) and Statement (II) are incorrect.
  • Both Statements (I) and Statement (II) are correct.
  • Statement (I) is incorrect but Statement (II) is correct.
  • Statement (I) is correct and Statement (II) is incorrect.
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The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Soil physical parameters such as soil temperature significantly influence microbial activity, seed germination, and nutrient uptake by plant roots.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

Let us analyze each statement carefully:
1. Statement (I): Soil temperature is typically measured near the surface layers of the soil (such as at depths of \(5\text{ cm}\), \(10\text{ cm}\), and \(20\text{ cm}\)), as this is the dynamic zone of seed germination and maximum root concentration. Special soil thermometers with bent stems are inserted at these shallow depths to record agricultural data. Thus, Statement (I) is correct.
2. Statement (II): The optimal soil temperature range for maximum nutrient absorption and root growth for most agricultural crops is generally between \(15\text{--}30^{\circ}\text{C}\) (or \(20\text{--}30^{\circ}\text{C}\)). High soil temperatures between \(37\text{--}42^{\circ}\text{C}\) are excessively hot; they impair root respiration, denature cellular proteins, damage enzyme systems, and drastically reduce the plant's capacity to absorb nutrients and water. Thus, Statement (II) is incorrect.
Therefore, Statement (I) is correct, but Statement (II) is incorrect.

Step 3: Final Answer:

Thus, the correct option is (D).
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