What is the process of formation of laterite soil?

Process of Formation of Laterite Soil (लैटेराइट मृदा निर्माण):

Laterite Soil (derived from Latin 'Later' meaning brick) forms through intense tropical weathering under alternating wet and dry monsoonal climates with high rainfall ($>200 ext{ cm}$) and high temperature:

• 1. Intense Leaching (निक्षालन): Heavy torrential monsoonal rains percolate deeply through the topsoil, dissolving and washing away all soluble alkaline salts and Silica ($SiO_2$) into lower horizons (Desilication).
• 2. Residual Accumulation of Sesquioxides: Insoluble, non-leachable oxides of Iron ($Fe_2O_3$) and Aluminium ($Al_2O_3$) are left behind in the topsoil horizon, imparting its characteristic rusty red brick colour.
• 3. Induration on Exposure: When exposed to the atmosphere and dried, iron compounds undergo hardening, creating tough brick-like crusts (Laterite bricks used in construction).
• Agricultural Fertility: Naturally acidic, nutrient-poor in nitrogen/phosphorus/potash, but highly productive for plantation crops (Tea, Coffee, Cashew, Rubber) with fertilizers.