Statements-I:
The soil in tropical rain forests is rich in nutrients.
Statements-II:
The high temperature and moisture of tropical rain forests cause dead organic matter in the soil to decompose quickly.

Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?
a. Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is the correct explanation for Statement-I
b. Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is not the correct explanation for Statement-I
c. Statement-I is correct but Statement-II is incorrect
d. Statement-I is incorrect but Statement-II is correct

Question from UPSC Prelims 2023 GS Paper

Explanation :

Correct Answer- d. Statement-I is incorrect but Statement-II is correct

Tropical rain forests

The soil in tropical rain forests is not rich in nutrients. This is because the high temperature and moisture of tropical rain forests cause dead organic matter in the soil to decompose quickly, as mentioned in Statement-II. This rapid decomposition leads to the nutrients being quickly absorbed by the plants, leaving the soil relatively nutrient-poor.