Question

Organic matter content (%) of most Indian soils on a dry soil basis varies between:

• A. 3-4
• B. 0.2-0.5
• C. 5-6
• D. 0.5-2.0

Hint:

Soil organic matter in India:
- Average: 0.5-2.0%.
- Higher in forest soils and humid regions.
- Lower in arid and semi-arid regions.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the Question:
This question tests knowledge of soil organic matter content in Indian soils.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Most Indian soils have low organic matter content due to high temperatures and rapid decomposition.
The typical organic matter content in Indian soils ranges from 0.5% to 2.0% on a dry soil basis.
Soils in the Indo-Gangetic plains have slightly higher organic matter, while arid and semi-arid soils have lower levels.
Options A (3-4%) and C (5-6%) are too high for Indian soils.
Option B (0.2-0.5%) is too low for most agricultural soils.
Thus, the correct range is 0.5-2.0%.

Step 3: Final Answer:
Thus, organic matter content in most Indian soils varies between 0.5-2.0%, which corresponds to option (D).
[0.5cm]