Environmental Studies · Biology

Soil Science and Fertilizers

1,537 Questions

Soil science focuses on soil formation, classification, and fertility management using fertilizers and organic amendments. Agricultural and environmental science exams heavily feature questions on biofertilizers, mycorrhiza, and phytoremediation. Practice these questions to build a strong understanding of soil nutrient cycles.

Phytoremediation techniquesOrganic soil amendmentsBiofertilizers and mycorrhizaNitrous oxide emissionsIn-situ soil remediationGreen manuring effects

Soil Science and Fertilizers Questions

Multiple choice

Which of the following statements is/are correct?

a. Lichens and mosses help in soil formation. b. Bits of decayed living organisms in the soil are called humus. c. Humus can be found in the subsoil.

  1. a only

  2. b only

  3. c only

  4. a and b

  5. b and c
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
D Correct answer
Explanation

This is the correct answer as these statements are correct. Lichens grow on the surface of rocks and while growing, they release certain substances that cause the rock surface to powder down and form a thin layer of soil. Mosses grow on this surface and they cause the rock to break up further. Bits of decayed living organisms in the soil are called humus.

Multiple choice

Soil corrosion is affected by

  1. acidity of the soil

  2. resistivity of the soil

  3. presence of chlorides and sulphides

  4. all of the above
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
D Correct answer
Explanation

All the given factors affect soil corrosivity. With the increase in acidity of soil, corrosion rate increases. Since corrosivity is associated with electrochemical reactions in soil, high soil resistivity slows down the corrosion reactions. Concentration of chlorides and sulphides in soil plays an important role in soil corrosivity.

Multiple choice

Salination in soil is caused due to _________.

  1. increased use of pesticides

  2. over utilization of soil resources

  3. overgrazing by animals

  4. over irrigation by canals and wells

  5. none of the above
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
D Correct answer
Explanation

Owing to over irrigation and capillary action,  the soil is becoming alkaline and about 50% of land is affected by this area.

Multiple choice

Directions: Answer the following question by selecting the most appropriate option.

In rural areas, cow dung is used to coat the floor and walls of huts to

  1. give a natural colour to the floor

  2. keep the insects away

  3. make them smooth and clean

  4. make them rough to increase friction
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
C Correct answer
Explanation

Cow dung is traditionally used as a coating material in rural areas because it creates a smooth, clean surface when dried. It also acts as a natural insect repellent and provides some thermal insulation for the hut.

Multiple choice

Which of the following is the correct statement?

  1. Metals, minerals and petroleum are artificial resources.

  2. Water and soil are not essential for plant and animals.

  3. Thick growth of plants and trees is called desert.

  4. Use of manure and fertilizers increases the crop yield.

  5. Plants need average soil to grow.
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
D Correct answer
Explanation

Yes, use of manure and fertilizers increases the crop yield. This is the correct statement.

Multiple choice

How do cyclones affect the fertility of soil?

  1. They donot affect the fertility of the soil.

  2. The fertility of soil is reduced.

  3. The fertility of soil is increased.

  4. None of these
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
B Correct answer
Explanation

The fertility of soil is reduced.