Set D - UPSC Prelims 2025 Solutions

QQuestion

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?

OOptions

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

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

✓Correct Answer

C) Only one of the Statements II and III is correct and that explains Statement I

DDalvoy Solutions

Statement I: Scientific studies do suggest that shifts are occurring in Earth's rotation and axis due to various factors including climate change and mass redistribution.

Statement II: Incorrect as an explanation for Statement I. While solar flares and coronal mass ejections do bombard Earth's atmosphere with energy, they primarily affect electromagnetic systems and atmospheric conditions, not the planet's rotational axis or rotation speed.

Statement III: Correct and explains Statement I. As polar ice melts due to global warming, the redistribution of water mass from poles toward the equator affects Earth's moment of inertia, causing measurable changes in rotation speed and polar motion. This is similar to how a figure skater slows down when extending their arms.

Only Statement III correctly explains the phenomenon described in Statement I.

Solution Diagram for Q<built-in function id>

SUPSC Prelims Strategy and Tips

For geophysical questions, focus on mass distribution effects and physical principles. Climate-induced mass redistribution has more direct impact on Earth's rotation than space weather events.

SUPSC Prelims 2025 Syllabus Analysis

Geography - Physical geography, Earth's rotation and climate change impacts

AUPSC Prelims 2025 Question Analysis

Hard difficulty - requires understanding of geophysics and climate change impacts

Question 93

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