Consider the following statements regarding the "Pole Star": 1. It helps in finding the North direction. 2. It changes its position every night. 3. It was unknown to ancient people for determining directions. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

The correct option is (a). Explanation The Pole Star, also known as Polaris, is a prominent star that holds a significant place in celestial navigation and astronomy due to its unique alignment with the Earth's rotational axis. - Statement 1 is Correct: The Pole Star is situated almost directly above the Earth's North Pole. Consequently, it always indicates the North direction. By locating this star, observers can determine the cardinal directions during the night. - Statement 2 is Incorrect: Unlike other stars that appear to move across the sky from east to west due to the Earth's rotation, the Pole Star appears to remain stationary at the same position in the sky. This is because it lies very close to the line of the Earth's axis of rotation extended into space. - Statement 3 is Incorrect: The Pole Star was well-known to ancient people. Before the invention of the compass and modern navigational tools, travelers and mariners relied heavily on the Pole Star to determine directions during the night. Key Takeaway: The Pole Star (Polaris) appears stationary and indicates the North direction because it is aligned with the Earth's axis of rotation, a fact utilized for navigation since ancient times.

NCERT Class 6 Geography — Chapter 1: The earth in the solar system

mcqmedium

Consider the following statements regarding the "Pole Star":

It helps in finding the North direction.
It changes its position every night.
It was unknown to ancient people for determining directions.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Official previous-year question

Verified 1 Aug 2026.

Options

A1 only
B2 only
C1 and 3 only
D1, 2 and 3

Did you get this right?

Solution

The correct option is (a).

Explanation

The Pole Star, also known as Polaris, is a prominent star that holds a significant place in celestial navigation and astronomy due to its unique alignment with the Earth's rotational axis.

Statement 1 is Correct: The Pole Star is situated almost directly above the Earth's North Pole. Consequently, it always indicates the North direction. By locating this star, observers can determine the cardinal directions during the night.
Statement 2 is Incorrect: Unlike other stars that appear to move across the sky from east to west due to the Earth's rotation, the Pole Star appears to remain stationary at the same position in the sky. This is because it lies very close to the line of the Earth's axis of rotation extended into space.
Statement 3 is Incorrect: The Pole Star was well-known to ancient people. Before the invention of the compass and modern navigational tools, travelers and mariners relied heavily on the Pole Star to determine directions during the night.

Key Takeaway: The Pole Star (Polaris) appears stationary and indicates the North direction because it is aligned with the Earth's axis of rotation, a fact utilized for navigation since ancient times.

Your note

More from Chapter 1: The earth in the solar system

Consider the following statements regarding celestial bodies: 1. All celestial bodies emit their own heat and light in large amounts. 2. Stars are celestial bodies made up of gases. 3. The Sun is a celestial body that reflects the light of other stars. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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Which one of the following star groups is a recognizable part of the Ursa Major constellation?

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The term ‘Planet’ is derived from the Greek word ‘Planetai’, which translates to:

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The correct option is (a).

Explanation

The Pole Star, also known as Polaris, is a prominent star that holds a significant place in celestial navigation and astronomy due to its unique alignment with the Earth's rotational axis.

Statement 1 is Correct: The Pole Star is situated almost directly above the Earth's North Pole. Consequently, it always indicates the North direction. By locating this star, observers can determine the cardinal directions during the night.
Statement 2 is Incorrect: Unlike other stars that appear to move across the sky from east to west due to the Earth's rotation, the Pole Star appears to remain stationary at the same position in the sky. This is because it lies very close to the line of the Earth's axis of rotation extended into space.
Statement 3 is Incorrect: The Pole Star was well-known to ancient people. Before the invention of the compass and modern navigational tools, travelers and mariners relied heavily on the Pole Star to determine directions during the night.