The correct option is (c).
Explanation
The Earth revolves around the Sun in a fixed path known as an orbit. The characteristics of this orbit, combined with the Earth's axial tilt, are fundamental to understanding astronomical cycles and seasons.Statement 1 is Correct: The orbit is the specific trajectory or path along which the Earth travels around the Sun. This motion is termed revolution, and it takes approximately 365 days and 6 hours to complete one full circuit.
Statement 2 is Incorrect: The Earth's orbit is not a perfect circle; it is elliptical (oval-shaped). Consequently, the distance between the Earth and the Sun varies throughout the year, leading to positions known as Perihelion (closest distance) and Aphelion (farthest distance).
Statement 3 is Correct: The Earth's axis is inclined at an angle of 66½° to the plane of its orbit (ecliptic plane). Throughout its revolution around the Sun, the axis remains tilted in the same direction relative to the background stars. This phenomenon is known as the parallelism of the Earth's axis.
Key Takeaway: The Earth revolves around the Sun in an elliptical orbit, not a circular one, while maintaining a constant axial orientation, which is the primary driver of seasonal changes.