Q64 · UPSC Prelims 2021 · Set A · Geography

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The black cotton soil of India has been formed due to the weathering of

A brown forest soil
B fissure volcanic rock
C granite and schist
D shale and limestone

Correct answer: (b) fissure volcanic rock

Explanation

  1. A

    brown forest soil

    Brown forest soil. A temperate forest type, not Deccan clay.

  2. B

    fissure volcanic rock

    Fissure volcanic rock. Deccan Trap basalt weathers to black cotton / regur.

  3. C

    granite and schist

    Granite and schist. Red/yellow soils more often.

  4. D

    shale and limestone

    Shale and limestone. Different parent.

Summary. Official key is (b) fissure volcanic rock. Black cotton soil (regur) is weathered Deccan Trap basalt from fissure eruptions.