Soils and Their Other Names (Exam-Oriented) SSB TGT / RHT /LTR/SSC/SSC/ OSSSC

Meaning of Soil

Soil is the uppermost layer of the Earth’s crust formed by the weathering of rocks and the decomposition of organic matter, capable of supporting plant life.

Scientific Definition:

Soil is a natural body composed of minerals, organic matter, water, air, and living organisms.

Types of Soils (India – Very Important)

1. Alluvial Soil

• Found in: Ganga, Brahmaputra plains
• Rich in potash
• Good for rice & wheat
• Also called: Riverine soil

2. Black Soil

• Also called Regur Soil
• Found in: Maharashtra, Gujarat
• Best for cotton
• Retains moisture

3. Red Soil

• Rich in iron
• Found in: Odisha, Tamil Nadu
• Red color due to iron oxide

4. Laterite Soil

• Found in high rainfall areas
• Found in: Kerala
• Poor in fertility
• Suitable for tea & coffee

5. Desert Soil

• Found in: Rajasthan
• Sandy texture
• Low humus

6. Mountain/Forest Soil

• Found in: Himalayas
• Rich in organic matter

  

Main Soil Name	Other Name(s)	Important Exam Point
Black Soil	Regur Soil, Black Cotton Soil	Best for cotton
Alluvial Soil	Riverine Soil	Deposited by rivers
New Alluvial Soil	Khadar Soil	More fertile
Old Alluvial Soil	Bhangar Soil	Less fertile
Red Soil	Red & Yellow Soil	Iron oxide gives red colour
Laterite Soil	Brick Soil, Lateritic Soil	Hardens like brick on drying
Desert Soil	Arid Soil	Sandy, low humus
Saline Soil	Reh Soil, Usar Soil	High salt content
Mountain Soil	Forest Soil	Found in hilly regions
Peaty Soil	Marshy Soil	Rich in organic matter

Study of soil → Pedology

Soil scientist → Pedologist

Soil fertility depends on → Humus

Soil erosion by wind → Deflation

Removal of topsoil → Soil Erosion

Conservation method → Contour Ploughing