Question

The soil having electrical conductivity less than 4000 micro-ohms/cm at 25˚C and exchangeable sodium percentage greater than 15 and pH between 8.5 -10.0 is called
1. Saline soil
2. Alkali soil
3. Saline-alkali soil
4. Normal soil

Answer 1

Correct Answer - Option 2 : Alkali soil

Explanation:

Alkali or alkaline soil:

• Alkaline soils are clay soils with high pH (> 8.5), a poor soil structure, and a low infiltration capacity. 
• it usually contains a great deal of sodium, calcium, and magnesium ions.
• Alkaline soil is less soluble than acidic or neutral soil, availability of nutrients is often limited.
• In arid or desert areas where rainfall is slim and places where there are dense forests, soil tends to be more alkaline.

Classification of different types of soil:

Classification	Electrical Conductivity (micro-ohms / cm)	Exchangeable Sodium Percentage (ESP)	pH
Saline	> 4000	< 15	< 8.5
Alkaline	< 4000	> 15	8.5-10
Saline-alkaline	> 4000	> 15	< 8.5