Question

Given below are two statements, one is labelled as Assertion A and the other is labelled as Reason R
Assertion A: Pressure cookers are fitted with ebonite handles.
Reason R: Ebonite is strong,
In 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:

For Assertion-Reason questions, connect the two statements with the word "because".
"Pressure cookers have ebonite handles because ebonite is strong."
This sounds incomplete.
The actual explanation is: "_____because ebonite is a bad conductor of heat."
This quickly reveals that R is not the correct explanation.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
This question evaluates standard material properties used in domestic appliances.
Household cooking utensils require handles made of insulating materials.
This prevents thermal conduction from the hot pot to the hand of the user.
Detailed Explanation:
Let us analyze Assertion A:
Pressure cookers are designed to operate at elevated temperatures and pressures.
They are fitted with ebonite handles because ebonite is a highly vulcanized hard rubber.
It has excellent thermal and electrical insulation properties.
This thermal resistance protects the user from getting burned.
Thus, Assertion A is true.
Now let us analyze Reason R:
Ebonite is chemically cross-linked with a high sulfur content.
This makes it mechanically strong, rigid, and durable.
Thus, Reason R is also true.
However, the reason why ebonite is used as a handle is because it is a poor conductor of heat.
Its mechanical strength is a secondary, supportive attribute, not the primary functional reason.
Therefore, while both statements are individually true, R is not the correct explanation of A.

Step 2: Final Answer:
Both Assertion A and Reason R are true, but Reason R is not the correct explanation of Assertion A.