Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Soil physical and chemical properties must be quantified using standardized analytical methods and laboratory instruments.
Matching these properties with their respective estimation methods is a key skill in soil diagnostics.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
- (A) Gypsum requirement: The Schoonover method (1952) is the standard method used to determine the gypsum requirement of sodic soils.
It involves treating the soil with a saturated gypsum solution and measuring the loss of calcium from the solution due to exchange with sodium on the soil complex. Thus, (A) matches (IV).
- (B) Soil crust strength: Soil crust strength and soil compaction are measured using a penetrometer.
This instrument measures the resistance of the soil to penetration by a standardized probe. Thus, (B) matches (III).
- (C) Bulk density: Bulk density is defined as the dry mass of soil per unit bulk volume.
It is measured in the field using a core sampler, which extracts a known volume of undisturbed soil. Thus, (C) matches (II).
- (D) Density of suspension: In the mechanical analysis of soil texture, the density of the soil-water suspension is measured over time.
The Bouyoucos hydrometer method is used to determine sand, silt, and clay fractions based on these density changes. Thus, (D) matches (I).
Combining these pairs gives: (A) - (IV), (B) - (III), (C) - (II), (D) - (I).
This matches Option (A).
Step 3: Final Answer:
The correct matching sequence is (A) - (IV), (B) - (III), (C) - (II), (D) - (I).