Correct Option
The correct option is 2 and 3 only.
Explanation
Geomorphic agents are mobile mediums (such as running water, moving ice, wind, waves, and currents) that remove, transport, and deposit earth materials. These agents can be classified based on their dependence on climatic zones. While some agents are strictly restricted to specific climatic conditions (zonal), others operate independently of climatic zones (azonal).
Statement-wise Analysis
- Statement 1 is Incorrect.
Wind, running water, and glaciers are considered climatic or zonal agents. Their distribution and intensity are directly governed by climatic factors such as temperature and precipitation. For example, glaciers are restricted to cold regions (high latitudes or altitudes), wind action is most dominant in arid and semi-arid regions, and running water is the primary agent in humid regions. They are not independent of climatic conditions.
- Statement 2 is Correct.
Waves and groundwater are classified as non-climatic or azonal agents. Waves operate along coastlines regardless of the climatic zone (tropical, temperate, or polar). Similarly, groundwater action can occur in any region where the geological structure permits, irrespective of the specific climatic zone. Therefore, they are not strictly controlled by climate in the same manner as glaciers or wind.
- Statement 3 is Correct.
The geomorphic work of groundwater is primarily determined by the lithological character of the region rather than the climate. Specifically, groundwater erosion (karst topography) requires the presence of soluble and permeable rocks, such as limestone or dolomite. Without these specific rock types, groundwater cannot perform significant erosional work, regardless of the amount of rainfall.
Key Takeaway
Running water, groundwater, and wind are climatically controlled (zonal) agents, whereas waves and groundwater are lithologically or geographically controlled (azonal) agents. Groundwater specifically depends on the solubility and permeability of rocks (lithology).