Question

Which one of the following falls in the category of edaphic factors affecting crop production?

• A. Precipitation
• B. Atmospheric humidity
• C. Soil organisms
• D. Altitude

Hint:

The word 'edaphic' always refers to soil. Any option containing soil properties (such as soil pH, soil texture, soil moisture, or soil biological activity) will fall under edaphic factors.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Environmental factors affecting crop production are categorized into climatic, edaphic, biotic, physiographic, and anthropogenic factors.
Edaphic factors specifically relate to the physical, chemical, and biological properties of the soil.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let us analyze the given options based on environmental classifications:
1. Precipitation: This is a climatic factor describing atmospheric moisture deposition.
2. Atmospheric humidity: This is a climatic factor relating to moisture in the air.
3. Soil organisms: This is a biological aspect of soil, which constitutes an edaphic factor influencing nutrient cycling and soil structure.
4. Altitude: This is a physiographic or topographic factor affecting regional climate and temperature.
Since soil organisms are directly associated with the soil medium, they fall under the category of edaphic factors.

Step 3: Final Answer:
Therefore, soil organisms are classified as edaphic factors, making Option (C) the correct choice.