Question

Given below are two statements: one is labelled as Assertion (A) and the other is labelled as Reason (R). Assertion (A): The areas of highest salinity are found between \(20^\circ\)–\(40^\circ\) North. Reason (R): This zone is characterized by high temperature, high evaporation but significantly low rainfall. In the light of the above statements, choose the correct answer from the options given below:

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

Hint:

\[ \boxed{ 20^\circ\text{--}40^\circ \rightarrow \text{High Evaporation + Low Rainfall} \rightarrow \text{Highest Salinity} } \] Mnemonic: “Subtropics = Salty Seas.”

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Concept: Maximum ocean salinity occurs in the subtropical high-pressure belts (around \(20^\circ\)–\(40^\circ\) latitude) because evaporation greatly exceeds precipitation.

Step 1: Evaluate Assertion (A). The highest ocean salinity is generally observed in the subtropical belt. \[ \boxed{\text{Assertion (A) is True}} \]

Step 2: Evaluate Reason (R). High temperature, intense evaporation and low rainfall increase salinity. \[ \boxed{\text{Reason (R) is True}} \]

Step 3: Relation between A and R. The reason correctly explains why salinity is highest in this latitude belt. \[ \boxed{\text{(A)}} \]