In the context of WHO Air Quality Guidelines, consider the following statements: 1. The 24-hour mean of PM2…

In the context of WHO Air Quality Guidelines, consider the following statements: 1. The 24-hour mean of PM2.5 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?
  1. 1, 3 and 4
  2. 1 and 4 only
  3. 2, 3 and 4
  4. 1 and 2 only

Solution

1 correct (WHO 2021 guidelines). 2 incorrect: ozone peaks during hot, sunny weather, not inclement weather. 3 incorrect: PM2.5 (not PM10) penetrates into the bloodstream. 4 correct: ozone triggers asthma.

Asked in: UPSC Prelims 2022

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