Question

Given below are two statements: one is labelled as Assertion (A) and the other is labelled as Reason (R).
Assertion (A): In expensive scientific instruments, silica gel is kept in watch-glasses or in semipermeable membrane bags.
Reason (R): Silica gel adsorbs moisture from air via adsorption, thus protects the instrument from water corrosion (rusting) and/or prevents malfunctioning.
In the light of the above statements, choose the correct answer from the options given below:

• A. A is false but (R) is true
• B. Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is the correct explanation of (A)
• C. A is true but (R) is false
• D. Both (A) and (R) are true but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A)

Hint:

Silica gel is used as a desiccant in a variety of applications, including in scientific instruments, to maintain a dry environment and prevent moisture damage.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Silica gel is commonly used in expensive scientific instruments to prevent moisture from damaging the instruments.
It adsorbs moisture from the air, preventing water corrosion (rusting) and protecting the instrument from malfunctioning.
Thus, the reason given in (R) provides the correct explanation for the assertion in (A).