Assertion–Reason (Noise Pollution):\nAssertion (A): Noise pollution is the unwanted accumulation of sound (noise) in the environment.\nReason (R): Noise pollution interferes with communication.

Introduction / Context:
The question checks recognition of a core effect that makes environmental noise a pollutant.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Noise pollution involves undesirable, intrusive sound.
• One major consequence is communication interference (masking speech, alarms).

Concept / Approach:
Noise becomes a pollutant when it negatively affects health, comfort, productivity, wildlife behavior, and crucially, intelligible communication. Masking of speech and signals is a principal adverse effect, directly connecting the definition to its harmful impact.

Step-by-Step Solution:
1) A: True—defines noise pollution as unwanted/intrusive sound accumulation.2) R: True—communication masking is a key harm attributable to noise.3) The reason articulates a principal mechanism that makes such sound “pollution,” so it explains A.

Verification / Alternative check:
Standards for noise levels (dB limits) often derive from speech intelligibility, sleep disturbance, and health endpoints; communication impairment is central.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
They either deny a correct definition or ignore a canonical consequence.

Common Pitfalls:
Thinking only “loudness” matters; duration, frequency content, and context also determine interference.

Final Answer:
Both A and R are true, and R explains A.