Statement I : The laterite soils develop in areas with high temperature and high rainfall. Statement I : Laterite soils are the result of intense leaching process.

Laterite soils are primarily formed in tropical and subtropical regions characterized by high temperatures and heavy rainfall [1]. Statement I is true as these climatic conditions are essential for the soil's development, typically involving alternate wet and dry seasons [2]. Statement II is also true and provides the correct explanation for Statement I; the high rainfall in these warm regions leads to intense leaching, a process where silica and lime are washed away, leaving behind a soil rich in iron and aluminum oxides [2]. This process, known as laterization, occurs because the high temperature and humidity accelerate chemical weathering and the removal of soluble bases [2]. Consequently, the soil becomes acidic and develops its characteristic brick-like hardness upon drying [1]. Therefore, Statement II directly explains the mechanism of formation under the conditions described in Statement I.

Sources

1. [1] NCERT. (2022). Contemporary India II: Textbook in Geography for Class X (Revised ed.). NCERT. > Chapter 1: The Rise of Nationalism in Europe > Laterite Soil > p. 11
2. [2] Geography of India ,Majid Husain, (McGrawHill 9th ed.) > Chapter 6: Soils > 6. Laterite Soils > p. 12