Question

Two statements are given below. They are Assertion (A) and Reason (R). Read both the statements carefully and choose the correct option :
Assertion (A) : River valleys are sparsely populated areas of the world.
Reason (R) : Water is the most important factor for life.

• 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:

River Valleys = Densely Populated (High fertility, water).
Deserts/High Mountains = Sparsely Populated (Harsh conditions).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Concept:
• Population distribution is influenced by geographical factors like water availability, landforms, and climate.

• People prefer living in areas where fresh water is easily available for drinking, cooking, agriculture, and industries.

Step 1: Analyze the Assertion
Historically, most civilizations have developed along river banks (e.g., Nile, Indus, Yangtze).
River valleys provide fertile soil and abundant water, making them the most densely populated areas, not sparsely populated.
Thus, Assertion (A) is false.

Step 2: Analyze the Reason
Water is essential for biological survival and all human economic activities.
It is indeed the most important factor for life and settlement location.
Thus, Reason (R) is true.

Step 3: Determine the correct option
Since (A) is false and (R) is true, Option (D) is the only correct choice.