Question Details

Select the correct option regarding the following two statements labelled Assertion (A) and Reason (R).

Assertion (A): Excess accumulation of biodegradable waste can also create environmental problems.

Reason (R): Slow decomposition may lead to foul smell and spread of disease.

Options

Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A

A is true, but R is false

Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A

A is false, but R is true

Show Answer

Correct Answer :

Option A

Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A

Solution :

The correct option is Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.

Let us break down the logical reasoning behind this step-by-step:

1. Analysis of Assertion (A):
Assertion (A) states that "Excess accumulation of biodegradable waste can also create environmental problems."
Biodegradable wastes (like vegetable peels, food leftovers, and paper) are substances that can be broken down by microorganisms over time. However, when these wastes accumulate in massive amounts, natural decomposers cannot process them fast enough. This leads to open dumping sites that pollute land and water resources, making Assertion (A) completely true.

2. Analysis of Reason (R):
Reason (R) states that "Slow decomposition may lead to foul smell and spread of disease."
When a huge volume of biodegradable waste piles up, the decomposition process becomes slow and often transitions from aerobic (with oxygen) to anaerobic (without oxygen) conditions. This anaerobic breakdown releases noxious gases like methane and hydrogen sulfide, which produce a strong foul smell. Additionally, the rotting heaps serve as breeding grounds for disease-carrying vectors like flies, mosquitoes, and rodents, leading to the spread of diseases. Thus, Reason (R) is also true.

3. Evaluating the Link between Assertion (A) and Reason (R):
To determine if Reason (R) is the correct explanation for Assertion (A), we ask: Why does the excess accumulation of biodegradable waste create environmental problems? It does so precisely because its slow decomposition generates a foul odor and promotes the breeding of pathogens and vectors that spread diseases, directly harming the surrounding environment and public health. Therefore, Reason (R) is the direct, correct explanation of Assertion (A).