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    Environment
    2018
    hard

    With reference to agricultural soils, consider the following statements: 1. A high content of organic matter in soil drastically reduces its water holding capacity. 2. Soil does not play any role in the sulphur cycle. 3. Irrigation over a period of time can contribute to the salinization of some agricultural lands. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    Select an option to reveal the answer and explanation.

    A hard Environment multiple-choice question from UPSC Prelims 2018. Attempt it above, then check the correct answer and detailed explanation below.

    Show correct answer & explanation

    Correct answer: B. 3 only

    Only statement 3 is correct — long-term irrigation can contribute to soil salinization. Statement 1 is wrong (organic matter increases, not reduces, water-holding capacity) and statement 2 is wrong (soil plays a key role in the sulphur cycle). So 3 only — option (b).

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