Which of the following statements about laterites or tropical rainforests is true?
A)Laterite soils readily compact and harden when dried and exposed to sunlight.
B)Rainforests regenerate quickly following clear cutting or clearing for agriculture.
C)Laterite soils are very rich in nutrients required for vigorous plant growth.
D)Laterites, with proper management, are very suitable for commercial agriculture.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Laterite soils are formed from the weathering of rocks in tropical regions with high rainfall. They are typically low in nutrients and organic matter, but can be used for agriculture if managed properly. However, one of their characteristics is that they become hard and compact when dried and exposed to sunlight, which can make them difficult for plowing or planting.

B, C, and D are all incorrect. Tropical rainforests do not regenerate quickly following clear cutting or clearing for agriculture; it can take decades or even centuries for them to recover fully. While laterite soils may contain some nutrients, they are not generally considered to be very rich in nutrients, and they may also have other limitations for agriculture such as low water-holding capacity or high acidity. Finally, while laterites can be used for agriculture, it may require specific management practices such as adding organic matter, improving drainage, or avoiding excessive tillage that could damage their structure.

Which of the Following Statements About Laterites or Tropical Rainforests