Social Science (087) — AI-generated practice question

Arid soils are sandy in texture, which means they have poor water retention capacity. The Kankar layer in the lower horizons also restricts infiltration of water, causing it to drain or evaporate quickly rather than being retained.

Arid soils are saline in nature due to high temperature and rapid evaporation, which concentrates soluble salts on the surface. This high salt content makes the soil infertile, as it lacks humus and moisture essential for plant growth. However, after proper irrigation, these soils can become cultivable, as seen in western Rajasthan.

Source: Soil as a Resource — Arid Soils, Chapter 1

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• The question has two parts: (1) feature causing quick drying, and (2) effect of soluble salts on fertility — address both.
• Key facts from the passage: sandy texture → poor moisture retention; Kankar layer → restricts infiltration; saline nature due to evaporation → lack of humus and moisture → low fertility.
• Mentioning western Rajasthan as an example of reclamation adds value and shows complete reading of the passage.
• Avoid writing about other soil types — stay focused on arid soils only.