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UPSC CSE 2025 · PYQ · Physical Geography / Earth's Rotation · hard

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?

  1. A.Both Statement II and Statement III are correct and both of them explain Statement I
  2. B.Both Statement II and Statement III are correct but only one of them explains Statement I
  3. C.Only one of the Statements II and III is correct and that explains Statement I✓ Correct
  4. D.Neither Statement II nor Statement III is correct

Explanation

There is scientific evidence that Earth's rotation and axis are shifting (Statement I correct). Statement III is correct — as polar ice melts due to global warming, water redistributes towards lower latitudes (equator), changing Earth's mass distribution and shifting its axis (polar motion). This phenomenon is well-documented. Statement II about solar flares bombarding the atmosphere, while true, does not significantly shift Earth's rotation or axis — solar activity affects upper atmosphere but not axial tilt. Hence only Statement III is correct and explains Statement I.
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