Consider the following statements: Statement I: Scientific studies suggest that a shift is taking place in the Earth's rotation and axis. Statement II: Solar flares and associated coronal mass ejections bombarded the Earth's outermost atmosphere with tremendous amount of energy. Statement III: As the Earth's polar ice melts, the water tends to move towards the equator. Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?
A
Both Statement II and Statement III are correct and both of them explain Statement I
B
Both Statement II and Statement III are correct but only one of them explains Statement I
Correct Answer
C
Only one of the Statements II and III is correct and that explains Statement I
D
Neither Statement II nor Statement III is correct
Explanation
Option (B) is correct because while both Statements II and III are scientifically accurate, only Statement III explains Statement I; the redistribution of mass from melting polar ice toward the equator changes the Earth's moment of inertia, thereby altering its rotation and axial tilt. Option (A) is the most tempting error, but it is incorrect because solar flares (Statement II) primarily affect the atmosphere and magnetosphere rather than the planet's fundamental rotational mechanics. The core concept tested is the impact of mass redistribution—driven by climate change—on Earth's rotational dynamics and the conservation of angular momentum.
Physical GeographyEarth's Dynamics & Climate ChangeEarth's rotationAxis shiftSolar flaresCoronal mass ejectionsPolar ice meltEquatorial bulgeMass distribution