Difference between Red Soil and Laterite Soil
Red soil and laterite soil are both types of soil, but they have different characteristics.
The main difference is red soil is formed from weathering of ancient rocks and has a high content of iron and aluminum while laterite soil is formed from weathering of young rocks and has a high content of oxide of iron and aluminum.
Before we move to the differences, let’s understand what are Red Soil and Laterite Soil:
- Red Soil: Red soil is a type of soil that is rich in iron and aluminum and has a reddish color due to the presence of iron oxide. It is formed from weathering of ancient rocks and is typically found in regions with a moderate climate and moderate rainfall.
- Laterite Soil: Laterite soil is a type of soil that is rich in oxide of iron and aluminum and has a reddish-brown color. It is formed from weathering of young rocks and is typically found in regions with high rainfall and a hot and humid climate.
Also check:
Now, let’s move to Red Soil vs Laterite Soil:
Major differences between Red Soil and Laterite Soil
| Red Soil | Laterite Soil |
|---|---|
| Red soil is formed from weathering of ancient rocks. | Laterite soil is formed from weathering of young rocks. |
| Red soil has a high content of iron and aluminum. | Laterite soil has a high content of oxide of iron and aluminum. |
| Red soil is often used for agriculture. | Laterite soil is not suitable for agriculture due to its poor fertility and high acidity. |
| Red soil is often found in deeper layers. | Laterite soil is found in the surface layer. |
| Red soil is often used for construction. | Laterite soil is mostly used for road construction. |
That’s it.
Note that sometimes, the question might also be asked as “distinguish between Red Soil and Laterite Soil”.
Also see:
- Difference between Black Soil and Laterite Soil
- Difference between Static Friction and Sliding Friction
- Difference between Strait and Isthmus
Final words
Red soil and laterite soil are both types of soil, but they have different characteristics. Red soil is formed from weathering of ancient rocks and has a high content of iron and aluminum, while laterite soil is formed from weathering of young rocks and has a high content of oxide of iron and aluminum.
Both types of soil have different properties, uses and are found in different regions.
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