Question

Positive soil pollution is (a) Reduction in soil productivity due to crosion and over use. (b) Reduction in soil productivity due to addition of pesticides and industrial wastes. (c) Converting fertile land into baren land by dumping ash, sludge and garbage. (d) None of these.

Short answer

Both (b) and (c) involve positive soil pollution.

Step-by-step solution

- Identify Key Terms

Understand what 'positive soil pollution' refers to. 'Positive' in this context means the direct addition of pollutants.

- Examine Each Option Closely

Read each option and determine if it involves adding pollutants directly to the soil.

- Analyze Option (a)

Option (a) states 'Reduction in soil productivity due to erosion and over use.' This does not mention adding pollutants, so it's not positive soil pollution.

- Analyze Option (b)

Option (b) states 'Reduction in soil productivity due to the addition of pesticides and industrial wastes.' This involves adding pollutants directly to the soil, fitting the description of positive soil pollution.

- Analyze Option (c)

Option (c) states 'Converting fertile land into barren land by dumping ash, sludge, and garbage.' This option also mentions adding pollutants directly to the soil.

- Analyze Option (d)

Option (d) states 'None of these.' Since we have identified that both (b) and (c) fit within the definition of positive soil pollution, this option is incorrect.

- Conclusion

Both options (b) and (c) fit the definition of positive soil pollution. Since both involve adding pollutants directly to the soil, either option could be considered correct.

Key concepts

soil productivity

Soil productivity refers to the ability of soil to support plant growth and sustain agricultural activities. It depends on numerous factors, including the presence of essential nutrients, soil structure, pH levels, and moisture content. When soil is productive, it can yield healthy crops, maintain ecosystem balance, and support other forms of life.
Several practices can enhance soil productivity:

• Crop rotation
• Organic farming
• Proper water management

However, soil productivity can be negatively impacted by various factors, including soil erosion, overuse, and the addition of pollutants.

pollutants

Pollutants are substances that negatively affect the environment. When it comes to soil, pollutants can reduce soil productivity and biodiversity, leading to long-term ecological damage. Common soil pollutants include:

• Heavy metals
• Industrial chemicals
• Pesticides
• Waste products

These pollutants can come from various sources such as agricultural runoff, industrial discharges, and improper waste disposal. The impact of pollutants on soil health can be devastating, leading to poor plant growth, contamination of food crops, and loss of soil fertility.

pesticides

Pesticides are chemicals used to kill or control pests that affect crops. While they help in boosting agricultural productivity, they can have detrimental effects on soil health. Pesticides can seep into the soil, altering its composition and affecting the organisms that live there. This can lead to:

• Reduction in beneficial soil microorganisms
• Contamination of water supplies
• Decrease in soil fertility

Finding sustainable alternatives to pesticides, such as organic farming practices and integrated pest management, can minimize their negative impact.

industrial waste

Industrial waste consists of unwanted by-products generated from industrial activities. If not properly managed, industrial waste can be a major source of soil pollution. This waste includes a variety of materials such as:

• Chemicals
• Heavy metals
• Toxins
• Sludge

When these substances are dumped into the soil, they can disrupt the natural balance and reduce soil productivity. Effective waste management practices and stringent regulations are essential to prevent soil contamination from industrial waste, ensuring a healthy environment for future generations.