Acid sulphate soils develop due to parent material rich in:

Correct option is B

· Acid sulphate soils form when pyrite (FeS₂) in marine sediments oxidizes to produce sulfuric acid.
· pH can fall below 3.5, producing jarosite.
Why other options are wrong
· (a) Mn oxides → not responsible for acid sulphate soils.
· (c) Gypsum supplies Ca–SO₄, does not create acidity.
· (d) Lime makes soils alkaline, opposite condition.