GeographyQuestion in UPSC Prelims 2025 on Earth rotation axis shift
Q. 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?
✅ Correct Answer: B. Both Statement II and Statement III are correct, but only one of them explains Statement I
Explanation:
✅ Statement I is correct: Scientific research shows that changes in Earth’s mass distribution—such as melting glaciers—can cause a shift in its axis and rotation.
✅ Statement II is correct: Solar flares and coronal mass ejections do bombard the Earth’s upper atmosphere with energy, but they do not directly affect Earth’s axis or rotation.
✅ Statement III is correct: Melting polar ice redistributes water toward the equator, altering Earth’s moment of inertia and thereby influencing its rotational axis.
— Only Statement III explains Statement I; therefore, option B is correct.
