UPSC PYQPrelims 2023

Civil Services Examination · Question 63

Consider the following statements: Statement-I: The soil in tropical rain forests is rich in nutrients. Statement-II: The high temperature and moisture of tropical rain forests cause dead organic matter in the soil to decompose quickly. Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?

  1. Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is the correct explanation for Statement-I
  2. Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is not the correct explanation for Statement-I
  3. Statement-I is correct but Statement-II is incorrect
  4. Statement-I is incorrect but Statement-II is correct
Show answer & explanation

Answer: (D) Statement-I is incorrect but Statement-II is correct

Explanation

Rainforest soils are nutrient-poor because rapid decomposition and heavy leaching quickly remove nutrients (taken up by vegetation).