The correct option is (a).
Explanation
The pressure exerted by a static liquid is determined by the weight of the liquid column above a specific point. It is governed by the hydrostatic pressure formula $P = h \rho g$, where $h$ is the depth (height of the liquid column), $\rho$ is the density, and $g$ is the acceleration due to gravity.
Statement-wise Analysis:
- Statement 1 is Correct: The pressure at any point inside a liquid is directly proportional to the height of the liquid column above that point. As the depth increases, the weight of the liquid column above increases, thereby increasing the pressure.
- Statement 2 is Incorrect: Liquids exert pressure on all surfaces they are in contact with, including the walls of the container, not just the bottom. This is why dams are built thicker at the bottom to withstand the higher lateral pressure.
- Statement 3 is Incorrect: At any given point in a static liquid, pressure acts equally in all directions. It is not limited to the downward direction; it pushes against the container walls sideways and even upwards against submerged objects (buoyancy).
Key Takeaway:
Liquid pressure increases with depth ($P \propto h$) and acts perpendicular to any surface in contact with the fluid. Crucially, at any point within the fluid, pressure is exerted in all directions.