The correct option is (a).
Explanation
The Earth rotates on an imaginary line called its axis while revolving around the Sun. The flat plane defined by the Earth's orbit around the Sun is known as the orbital plane or the plane of the ecliptic.Statement-wise Analysis:
- Statement 1 is Correct: The Earth's axis is not perpendicular to the orbital plane. It is tilted and makes an angle of 23½° with the normal (vertical line) drawn from the orbital plane.
- Statement 2 is Incorrect: The axis does not form a 90° angle with the orbital plane. Instead, the axis makes an angle of 66½° with the orbital plane itself (calculated as 90° - 23½°).
Key Takeaway: The Earth's axis is inclined at 23½° from the vertical perpendicular and 66½° from the horizontal orbital plane.