The correct option is (c).
Explanation
The relationship between forests and soil is symbiotic and interdependent. Forests play a critical role in soil conservation, while soil serves as the fundamental medium for forest sustenance and growth.
- Statement 1 is Correct: Forests act as a protective cover for the soil. The canopy intercepts rainfall, reducing the kinetic energy of raindrops before they hit the ground, thereby preventing splash erosion. Additionally, the layer of leaf litter on the forest floor reduces surface runoff velocity, allowing water to infiltrate rather than wash away the topsoil.
- Statement 2 is Incorrect: Soil does not hinder the growth of forests; rather, it is essential for their existence. Soil provides the necessary anchorage for roots, retains moisture, and supplies essential nutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, etc.) required for plant growth and regeneration. A healthy soil profile facilitates, rather than obstructs, the development of a forest ecosystem.
- Statement 3 is Correct: The extensive root systems of trees and undergrowth penetrate deep into the ground, physically binding soil particles together. This mechanical binding increases the shear strength of the soil, making it resistant to the erosive forces of wind and water.
Key Takeaway: Forests and soil maintain a mutually beneficial relationship where vegetation prevents soil erosion through root binding and canopy interception, while soil provides the essential nutrients and physical support required for forest growth.