In one line
A safe AQI (Air Quality Index) for outdoor activities is 0–50, which means the air is clean and healthy to breathe.
AQI chart with colours and ranges, showing green (0–50) as 'Good'.
Image: Wikipedia
The rule
The Air Quality Index (AQI) is a number used to show how clean or polluted the air is, and how it affects health. An AQI of 0–50 is considered safe for everyone to do outdoor activities.
Let's understand it simply
Imagine the AQI as a traffic signal for air. Green means go, yellow means be careful, and red means stop. When the AQI is between 0 and 50, it's like a green signal—safe for everyone to play cricket, run, or go for a walk. If the number goes higher, it's like the signal turning yellow or red, and you need to be careful or avoid going out.
| AQI Range | Colour | Outdoor Activity Advice |
|---|---|---|
| 0–50 | Green | Safe for all |
| 51–100 | Yellow | Okay, but sensitive people be careful |
| 101–200 | Orange/Red | Limit outdoor activities |
| 200+ | Red/Purple | Avoid outdoor activities |
How it works
- Scientists measure tiny particles and gases in the air.
- They use these numbers to calculate the AQI.
- The AQI is shown as a number and a colour (green, yellow, orange, red, etc.).
- 0–50 (green) means air is good; everyone can go outside safely.
- Above 50, the air starts to get unhealthy, especially for sensitive people.
Where you see it in real life
- On your smartphone weather app → It shows the AQI for your city → You check if it's safe to go jogging.
- On news channels during Diwali → They show high AQI due to crackers → People are advised to stay indoors.
- At schools → Teachers check AQI before letting students play outside.
- In big cities like Delhi during winter → AQI often goes above 200 → Authorities warn people to avoid outdoor exercise.
Why it matters
- Protects health, especially for children, elders, and people with asthma.
- Helps you plan outdoor sports, cycling, or walking.
- Used by schools, offices, and event organisers to decide if outdoor activities are safe.
- Important for exams and general knowledge about pollution and health.
Common mistakes
- Thinking any AQI below 100 is always safe—actually, only 0–50 is truly safe for everyone.
- Ignoring AQI if you feel fine—bad air can harm you even if you don't notice it right away.
Remember it
If AQI is 0–50, it's green and safe—GO outside and play!
Check yourself
What AQI range is considered safe for everyone to do outdoor activities?
0–50, because the air is clean and healthy.
Why should you avoid outdoor sports when AQI is above 200?
Because the air is very polluted and can harm your lungs.
If the AQI is 75, who should be careful about going outside?
Sensitive people like children, elders, and those with asthma.
Quick recap
- AQI 0–50 is safe for outdoor activities.
- AQI is like a traffic signal for air quality.
- Above 50, some people may need to be careful.
- Check AQI before going outside, especially in cities.