Michigan Test for Teacher Certification (MTTC) Secondary Integrated Science Practice test

Which soil type is rich in calcium carbonate and typically found in dry temperate climates?

1. Pedocals

2. Pedalfers

3. Laterites

4. Groundwater

The correct answer is: Pedocals

Pedocals are soil types characterized by their richness in calcium carbonate, which often results from the accumulation of minerals in arid or semi-arid environments. These soils are prevalent in dry temperate climates where there is limited rainfall, leading to the leaching of more soluble elements but allowing for the concentration of calcium carbonate. This concentration typically occurs because the lack of moisture prevents the leaching that would dissolve calcium carbonate. In contrast, pedalfers, laterites, and groundwater do not specifically align with these conditions. Pedalfers form in areas with more precipitation and are rich in iron and aluminum rather than calcium carbonate. Laterites develop in tropical climates and are heavily leached, leading to limited accumulation of carbonate minerals. Groundwater refers to water stored beneath the Earth's surface, rather than a specific soil type, making pedocals the appropriate choice for the given question.