Given below are two statements:
Statement I: An allotrope of oxygen is an important intermediate in the formation of reducing smog.
Statement II: Gases such as oxides of nitrogen and sulphur present in troposphere contribute to the formation of photochemical smog.
In the light of the above statements, choose the correct answer from the options given below:

Let us analyze both statements carefully.

Statement I says: "An allotrope of oxygen is an important intermediate in the formation of reducing smog." The allotrope of oxygen referred to here is ozone ($$O_3$$). However, ozone is an important intermediate in the formation of photochemical smog, not reducing smog. Reducing smog (also called London smog or classical smog) is formed from smoke and fog in cold, humid conditions due to combustion of coal, and involves $$SO_2$$ and particulate matter — not ozone. Therefore, Statement I is false.

Statement II says: "Gases such as oxides of nitrogen and sulphur present in troposphere contribute to the formation of photochemical smog." Photochemical smog is primarily caused by oxides of nitrogen ($$NO_x$$) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) reacting in the presence of sunlight. Oxides of sulphur ($$SO_x$$) are associated with reducing smog (classical smog), not photochemical smog. Therefore, Statement II is also false.

Since both statements are false, the correct answer is option (1): Both Statement I and Statement II are false.