Abstract

                                Most of the soils of Madras State are in an immature and virile state of development due to constant surface erosion exposing the lower horizon to the weathering forces. The erosive action is, generally, aided in many regions by a hummocky or undulating topography. The hummocky topography modifies the pattern and the extent of drainage in different sections of the slope. The difference in drainage conditions results in variation of profile characteristics. These soils, though different in the genetic and morphological features are similar in that they occur in situations of similar topography. Such physiographic association of soils is designated as catena (Milne, 1935a).

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