Q. Consider the following statements:

1. Latosols are the soils of humid tropical and equatorial regions.
2. Podzol soils are associated with the regions of cool humid climate with a fairly well-distributed rainfall.

Which of the above statements is / are correct?
Answer: Both 1 and 2
Notes: Both Latosols and Podzol soils are correctly matched to their climatic zones. Latosols develop in humid tropical and equatorial regions due to intense weathering and leaching. Podzols are found in cool, humid climates with ample rainfall, typically under coniferous forests, characterized by significant leaching and horizon differentiation due to acidic organic matter.