Question

Removal of top fertile layer of soil by wind or water is called

• A. Leaching
• B. Erosion
• C. Siltation
• D. Weathering

Answer 1

The correct option is B

Erosion

The correct option is B

Explanation of the correct option :

1. The uppermost layer of soil is known as the topsoil of Earth's surface. It is light, soft, and fertile and can easily be carried away.
2. Factors like wind, water and living organisms can lead to soil degradation.
3. The carrying away of the upper fertile layer of the soil by wind or water is called soil erosion.
4. In this process, the soil particles are loosened or washed away in the valleys, oceans, rivers, streams or far away lands.
5. It mainly occurs due to human activities like agriculture and deforestation.
6. It causes reduced ability of the soil to store water and nutrients, poor physical and chemical properties of soil, floods, etc.

Explanation of the incorrect option:

Option A:

Leaching is the natural process by which water-soluble substances or small particles are washed away from soil, rock or wastes.

Option C:

Siltation is the process by which water becomes dirty as a result of very fine mineral particles or soil in the water resulting in water pollution.

Option D:

1. Weathering is the breakdown of rocks, soils, minerals, artificial materials and wood on the surface of Earth.
2. Water, wind, animals, plants and climatic change and temperature are all the source of weathering.

Final answer: Removal of top fertile layer of soil by wind or water is called soil erosion.