Which of the following statements is correct about laterite soil?
(1) This soil is developed in areas with high temperature and heavy rainfall.
(2) It is poor in iron oxide and aluminium.
Select the correct answer using the code given below –
Code -

Laterite soils are formed in tropical and subtropical regions characterized by high temperature and heavy seasonal rainfall. This intense rainfall leads to a process called leaching, where lime and silica are washed away, leaving the soil rich in iron oxide and aluminium compounds. Therefore, statement 1 is correct, while statement 2 is incorrect because laterite soil is actually abundant in iron and aluminium, which gives it a characteristic reddish color. These soils are typically poor in nitrogen, phosphate, and calcium. They are found in parts of the Western Ghats, Odisha, and Northeast India, and are particularly suitable for growing cashew nuts and tapioca when treated with fertilizers.