UPSC CSE Prelims
Question 74
Consider the following:
- Electromagnetic radiation
- Geothermal energy
- Gravitational force
- Plate movements
- Rotation of the earth
- Revolution of the earth
Which of the above are responsible for bringing dynamic changes on the surface of the earth?
View correct answer and explanation
Correct answer: D
Correct Option: D
Explanation: Earth’s surface changes under external solar energy and gravity, internal geothermal/tectonic processes, and rotation–revolution effects on circulation and seasons.
Statement/Pair-wise Analysis:
Statement/Item 1: Correct - Solar electromagnetic radiation drives heating, weather and erosion indirectly.
Statement/Item 2: Correct - Geothermal energy powers internal earth processes including volcanism.
Statement/Item 3: Correct - Gravity drives runoff, mass wasting and many surface processes.
Statement/Item 4: Correct - Plate movements build mountains and generate earthquakes.
Statement/Item 5: Correct - Rotation shapes global circulation and Coriolis effects.
Statement/Item 6: Correct - Revolution with axial tilt creates seasons and associated changes in surface processes.
Option-wise Analysis:
A: Incorrect - excludes true items 5, 6.
B: Incorrect - excludes true items 2, 4.
C: Incorrect - excludes true items 1, 3.
D: Correct - selects all and only the accurate statements/pairs.