Correct Option
The correct option is (c).
Explanation
Africa is a major continent located centrally on the globe, uniquely positioned such that the Equator, the Tropic of Cancer, and the Tropic of Capricorn all pass through it. Its geographical extent and boundaries define its physical characteristics.
Statement-wise Analysis
- Statement 1 is Correct: Africa is the second largest continent in the world, covering approximately 30.3 million square kilometers. It ranks immediately after Asia in terms of both land area and population.
- Statement 2 is Incorrect: While the Equator (0° latitude) runs almost through the middle of the continent, the landmass of Africa is not evenly distributed. Due to the vast expanse of North Africa (including the Sahara Desert), a larger part of Africa lies in the Northern Hemisphere compared to the Southern Hemisphere.
- Statement 3 is Correct: Africa is an island continent in the sense that it is bound on all sides by oceans and seas. It is bordered by the Mediterranean Sea to the north, the Red Sea to the northeast, the Indian Ocean to the east and southeast, and the Atlantic Ocean to the west.
Key Takeaway: Africa is the only continent crossed by the Equator, Tropic of Cancer, and Tropic of Capricorn. Despite the Equator passing through its middle, the majority of its land area resides in the Northern Hemisphere.