The correct option is (c).
Explanation
Europe is one of the seven continents, located entirely in the Northern Hemisphere and primarily in the Eastern Hemisphere. It forms the western peninsula of the giant supercontinent known as Eurasia.
- Statement 1 is Incorrect: Europe is the second-smallest continent in the world by surface area; only Australia is smaller. Asia is the largest continent. Consequently, Europe is significantly smaller than Asia.
- Statement 2 is Correct: The Arctic Circle (approximately 66°33′ N) passes through the northern region of the continent. It crosses through countries such as Norway, Sweden, Finland, and the Russian Federation.
- Statement 3 is Correct: Europe is geographically a large peninsula extending from the Asian landmass. It is bounded by water bodies on three distinct sides: the Arctic Ocean to the north, the Atlantic Ocean to the west, and the Mediterranean Sea to the south. To the east, it is separated from Asia by the Ural Mountains and the Ural River.
Key Takeaway: Europe is a peninsula of the Eurasian landmass, bounded by the Arctic and Atlantic Oceans and the Mediterranean Sea, and is traversed by the Arctic Circle in the north.