Question

The characteristic of Saline-Alkali soil are

• A. pH $>$ 8.5, EC$<$ 4 dSm$^{-1}$, ESP $>$ 15
• B. pH $>$ 8.5, ESP $<$ 15, EC $>$ 4 dSm$^{-1}$
• C. pH $<$ 8.5, ESP $>$ 15, EC $<$ 4 dSm$^{-1}$
• D. pH $>$ 8.5, ESP $>$ 15, EC $<$ 4 dSm$^{-1}$

Hint:

Remember: High pH, high ESP, and low EC are indicators of sodic (alkali) soils.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Recall the three cut-offs: EC = 4 dS/m, ESP = 15, pH = 8.5.
Step 2: Sodium dominance, not salt content, drives Saline-Alkali soil, so ESP \( > \) 15 and pH \( > \) 8.5.
Step 3: Because soluble salts are low, EC stays \( < \) 4 dS m\(^{-1}\).
Step 4: This combination matches the fourth option, the correct answer.