Question

Most serious damage to soil is caused by ______.

Options

• surface runoff

• excessive burning of vegetation

• ground water depletion

• rain drop splashing

Answer 1

Most serious damage to soil is caused by surface runoff.

Explanation:

Surface runoff leads to soil erosion, which is the removal of the top fertile layer of soil. This erosion causes loss of nutrients, reduces land productivity, and leads to sedimentation in water bodies. It is a major factor in soil degradation alongside deforestation and improper land use. Other factors like excessive burning of vegetation and groundwater depletion also impact soil health, but surface runoff causing erosion is the most serious form of damage to soil productivity and structure.