Question

Given below are two statements:
Statement (I): The surface of a 'Pedon' is roughly polygonal.
Statement (II): The surface area of a pedon ranges from $1\text{ m}^2$ to $10\text{ m}^2$.
In light of the above statements, choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below:

• A. Both Statement (I) and Statement (II) are true.
• B. Both Statement (I) and Statement (II) are false.
• C. Statement (I) is true but Statement (II) is false.
• D. Statement (I) is false but Statement (II) is true.

Hint:

A group of similar, contiguous pedons is called a "polypedon," which forms the basic unit for soil mapping and classification.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
A pedon is the smallest three-dimensional unit of soil that exhibits all the characteristic horizons of a soil profile.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
- Statement (I) is true: A pedon represents a hexagonal or polygonal column of soil.
This shape allows multiple pedons to fit together to form a contiguous soil body (polypedon).
- Statement (II) is true: By taxonomic definition, the surface area of a pedon ranges from $1\text{ m}^2$ to $10\text{ m}^2$.
Its size depends on the lateral variability of the soil horizons; more variable horizons require a larger surface area to capture the representative profile.

Step 3: Final Answer:
Both Statement I and Statement II are correct.