Correct Option
The correct option is 1 only
Explanation
The question tests the fundamental properties of the Earth's grid system (latitudes and longitudes) and the specific geographical dimensions of the Indian subcontinent. Understanding the convergence of meridians and the parallel nature of latitudes is essential for this analysis.
Statement-wise Analysis
- Statement 1 is Correct: Longitudes (meridians) are semi-circles that run from the North Pole to the South Pole. They are widest apart at the Equator and converge to a single point at the poles. Consequently, the distance between two consecutive longitudes is maximum at the Equator (approximately 111.3 km) and decreases to zero at the poles.
- Statement 2 is Incorrect: Latitudes are parallel circles. The distance between two consecutive latitudes remains nearly constant (approximately 111 km) from the Equator to the poles. It is never zero at the Equator; rather, the Equator is the largest circle of latitude.
- Statement 3 is Incorrect: India's North-South extent (from Indira Col in Kashmir to Kanyakumari) is approximately 3,214 km. Its East-West extent (from Rann of Kutch in Gujarat to Arunachal Pradesh) is approximately 2,933 km. Therefore, the North-South extent is greater than the East-West extent, not the other way around.
Key Takeaway
Key Takeaway: Longitudes converge at the poles, making the distance between them maximum at the Equator, whereas latitudes remain parallel with a constant distance. Geographically, India's North-South length (approx. 3,214 km) exceeds its East-West width (approx. 2,933 km).