PYQ Question

In the context of WHO Air Quality Guidelines, consider the following statements : 1. The 24-hour mean of PM 2.5 should not exceed 15 µg/m3 and annual mean

August 6, 2026 en

In the context of WHO Air Quality Guidelines, consider the following statements : 1. The 24-hour mean of PM 2.5 should not exceed 15 µg/m3 and annual mean of PM2.5 should not exceed 5 µg/m3. 2. In a year, the highest levels of ozone pollution occur during the periods of inclement weather. 3. PM10 can penetrate the lung barrier and enter the bloodstream. 4. Excessive ozone in the air can trigger asthma. Which of the statements given above are correct?

A. 1, 3 and 4
B. 1 and 4 only
C. 2, 3 and 4
D. 1 and 2 only

Answer: B

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: According to the guidelines, The annual average for PM2.5 should not exceed 5 micrograms per cubic metre of air, while the 24-hour average should not exceed 15 micrograms per cubic metre. Statement 2 is not correct: Ozone at ground level is one of the major constituents of photochemical smog. It is formed by the reaction with sunlight (photochemical reaction) of pollutants such as nitrogen oxides (NOx) from vehicle and industry emissions and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted by vehicles, solvents and industry. As a result, the highest levels of ozone pollution occur during periods of sunny weather. (Inclement weather is unpleasant, especially with cold wind and rain.) Statement 3 is not correct: While particles with a diameter of 10 microns or less, (≤ PM10) can penetrate and lodge deep inside the lungs, the even more health-damaging particles are those with a diameter of 2.5 microns or less, (≤ PM2.5). PM2.5 can penetrate the lung barrier and enter the blood system. Statement 4 is correct: Excessive ozone in the air can have a marked eﬀect on human health. It can cause breathing problems, trigger asthma, reduce lung function and cause lung diseases.