Question

Assertion (A): The lava and ash deposited during an eruption break down to provide valuable nutrients for the soil and thus create fertile soil.

Reason (R): Agricultural fields are covered with layers of volcanic ash and dust, making them unsuitable for cultivation.

Options

• Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.

• Both A and R are true, but R does not explain A.

• A is true, but R is false.

• A is false, but R is true.

Answer 1

A is true, but R is false.

Explanation:
The Assertion (A) is true because lava and volcanic ash, once weathered and broken down, release minerals and nutrients like potassium and phosphorus, which enrich the soil and make it very fertile for agriculture. This is why volcanic regions often have highly productive farmland.

However, the Reason (R) is false because although volcanic ash initially covers fields, it doesn’t make them permanently unsuitable for cultivation. Instead, after it weathers, it improves soil fertility. So, while there can be short-term disruption, the long-term effect is positive for agriculture.