The correct option is (c) 1 and 3 only.
Explanation
Time measurement is fundamentally based on the regular and predictable movements of celestial bodies. Geographically, local time is determined by the position of the sun relative to a specific longitude.- Statement 1 is Correct: The regular movement of the earth, moon, and planets serves as the best means of measuring time. The earth’s rotation defines the day, its revolution defines the year, and the moon’s orbit defines the month. These natural cycles are the basis for standard timekeeping.
- Statement 2 is Incorrect: Local time can indeed be reckoned by the shadow cast by the sun; however, the shadow is shortest at noon (when the sun is directly overhead or at its highest point) and longest at sunrise and sunset.
- Statement 3 is Correct: When the Prime Meridian of Greenwich (0° Longitude) has the sun at the highest point in the sky, all places along this meridian experience mid-day or noon simultaneously. This principle applies to any specific meridian.
Key Takeaway: Noon is defined by the sun reaching its highest point in the sky over a specific meridian, which corresponds to the time of the day when shadows are the shortest.