Read the below statements marked as Assertion (A) and Reason (R). Mark the correct options:
Assertion (A): AQI value above 400 is classified as 'Severe'.
Reason (R): Such levels cause respiratory effects even on healthy individuals.
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: A
Explanation
The correct answer is option 1 i.e. Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
Assertion (A) is true: In the National Air Quality Index (AQI) of India, air quality is categorized into six levels. The highest category is 'Severe', which covers AQI values ranging from 401 to 500.
Reason (R) is true: When AQI reaches 'Severe' levels (above 400), the high concentration of pollutants poses a risk to the entire population. It is known to cause respiratory effects and serious health issues even in otherwise healthy individuals, while seriously impacting those with existing lung or heart diseases.
Connection: The reason (R) correctly explains why the category is labeled "Severe"—it marks the point where the air becomes hazardous enough to harm even those not typically considered vulnerable.