The correct option is (c).
Explanation
The Water Cycle, or Hydrological Cycle, describes the continuous movement of water on, above, and below the surface of the Earth. It is a closed system where water changes states (liquid, vapour, and ice) and circulates between the atmosphere, lithosphere, and hydrosphere.
Statement-wise Analysis:
- Statement 1 is Correct: The water cycle is driven by solar energy and involves key processes such as evaporation (water turning into vapour), condensation (vapour turning into clouds), precipitation (rain, snow, etc.), and run-off (water flowing over land into water bodies).
- Statement 2 is Incorrect: The Earth is essentially a closed system with respect to matter. While water constantly changes its form and location, the total volume of water on Earth remains relatively constant over geological time scales. It does not increase or decrease significantly through the cycle itself.
- Statement 3 is Correct: The cycle facilitates the circulation of water through the major reservoirs: the oceans (hydrosphere), the air (atmosphere), and the land (lithosphere/biosphere).
Key Takeaway:
The hydrological cycle ensures the circulation of water across different spheres of the Earth while maintaining the conservation of the planet's total water mass.