Given below are two statements: one is labelled as Assertion A and the other is labelled as Reason R Assertion A: Helium is used to dilute oxygen in diving apparatus. Reason R: Helium has high solubility in O2. In the light of the above statements, choose the correct answer from the options given below.
Both A and R are true but R is NOT the correct explanation of A.
A is true but R is false.
A is false but R is true.
Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A.
Show Solution
The Correct Option isB
Solution and Explanation
To evaluate the given statements, let's explore the rationale behind the assertions and reasons provided.
Understanding Assertion A:
Helium is indeed used to dilute oxygen in diving apparatus, primarily to avoid issues related to nitrogen narcosis and oxygen toxicity. While diving, breathing air with oxygen under high pressure can lead to oxygen toxicity, and nitrogen can cause narcosis, both of which can be dangerous.
The use of helium helps because it is inert and less soluble in blood than nitrogen, reducing the risk of narcosis.
Analyzing Reason R:
The reason given is that helium has high solubility in O_2. However, this statement is incorrect. Helium is characterized by its low solubility in other gases and in the bloodstream, which is why it reduces narcosis risks.
Evaluating the Options:
Option 1: Both A and R are true, but R is NOT the correct explanation of A. (This is incorrect as R is false.)
Option 2: A is true but R is false. This is correct as the assertion is true, but the reason provided is incorrect.
Option 3: A is false but R is true. (This is incorrect because A is true and R is false.)
Option 4: Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A. (This is incorrect because R is false.)
Conclusion:
The correct answer is that A is true but R is false. The use of helium in diving apparatus is due to its inert properties and low solubility, reducing risks associated with high-pressure oxygen and nitrogen in breathing gases.