Assertion : Methyl mercury is a highly persistent pollutant that accumulates in food chains.
Reason : Mercury pollution is responsible for minamata.

Options

A. If both assertion and reason are true and reason is the correct explanation of assertion
B. If both assertion and reason are true but reason is not the correct explanation of assertion
C. If assertion is true but reason is false
D. If both assertion and reson are false.

Answer

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding the Assertion**: The assertion states that "Methyl mercury is a highly persistent pollutant that accumulates in food chains."
- Methyl mercury is known for its stability and resistance to degradation, which allows it to persist in the environment for long periods. It accumulates in organisms, especially in aquatic ecosystems.

2. **Explaining Bio-magnification**: The assertion is supported by the concept of bio-magnification.
- Bio-magnification refers to the process where the concentration of a pollutant increases as it moves up the food chain. Methyl mercury is not easily eliminated or metabolized by organisms, leading to higher concentrations in predators at higher trophic levels.

3. **Understanding the Reason**: The reason states that "Mercury pollution is responsible for Minamata."
- Minamata disease is a neurological syndrome caused by mercury poisoning, which was first identified in Minamata Bay, Japan, where industrial discharge of mercury contaminated the local fish population.

4. **Linking the Assertion and Reason**: The reason explains the effects of mercury pollution, which aligns with the assertion about methyl mercury's persistence and accumulation in food chains.
- The mercury enters the food chain through contaminated water, affects aquatic life, and ultimately impacts human health when these fish are consumed.

5. **Conclusion**: Both the assertion and the reason are correct, and the reason provides a valid explanation for the assertion.
- Therefore, the correct answer is that both statements are true, and the reason correctly explains the assertion.