In the cities of our country, which among the following atmospheric ga

In the cities of our country, which among the following atmospheric gases are normally considered in calculating the value of Air Quality Index?

  • 1. Carbon dioxide
  • 2. Carbon monoxide
  • 3. Nitrogen dioxide
  • 4. Sulfur dioxide
  • 5. Methane

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

1, 2 and 3 only
2, 3 and 4 only
1, 4 and 5 only
1, 2, 3, 4 and 5
This question was previously asked in
UPSC IAS – 2016
The Air Quality Index (AQI) in India measures 8 pollutants. The gases typically considered for AQI calculation in urban areas are: Carbon Monoxide (CO), Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2), Sulfur Dioxide (SO2), and Ozone (O3). Ammonia (NH3) is also included. Particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5) and Lead (Pb) are also measured.
From the given list:
1. Carbon dioxide (CO2): Not included in standard AQI as it is primarily a greenhouse gas, not an air pollutant causing direct, immediate health impacts at typical ambient concentrations, unlike the others.
2. Carbon monoxide (CO): Included.
3. Nitrogen dioxide (NO2): Included.
4. Sulfur dioxide (SO2): Included.
5. Methane (CH4): Not included in standard AQI; it is a greenhouse gas.
Therefore, CO, NO2, and SO2 are among the atmospheric gases normally considered in calculating the value of Air Quality Index in cities.
Standard urban AQI measures pollutants like CO, NO2, SO2, O3, PM2.5, PM10. CO2 and Methane are greenhouse gases not typically included in AQI.
The AQI is a tool for effective communication of air quality status to people in simple terms. It transforms complex air quality data into a single number and color, indicating health implications.