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 a 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?
Explanation
The Earth’s rotation and axis are influenced by how mass is distributed across the planet. Even small redistributions can lead to measurable changes, known as polar motion.
Statement I is correct. Scientific studies, including satellite data, confirm a gradual shift in Earth’s rotational axis. This is linked to long-term changes in mass distribution due to climate and geological processes.
Statement II is correct. Solar flares and coronal mass ejections (CMEs) release enormous energy that interacts with the Earth’s outer atmosphere and magnetosphere. However, these are external space weather events and do not affect the Earth’s internal mass distribution or axis.
Statement III is correct. The melting of polar ice caps leads to movement of water towards the equator. This redistribution changes the Earth’s moment of inertia, similar to how a spinning object shifts when its weight is redistributed, thereby influencing the axis.
Thus, while both Statements II and III are correct, only Statement III explains Statement I.