Question

Paheli observed the shadow of a tree at $8:00AM$, $12:00noon$ and $3:00PM$. Which of the following statements is closest to her observation about the shape and size of the shadow?

• A. The shape of the shadow of the tree changes but the size remains the same.
• B. The size of the shadow of the tree changes but the shape remains the same.
• C. Both the size and shape of the shadow of the tree change.
• D. Neither the shape nor the size of the shadow changes.

Answer 1

The correct option is C

Both the size and shape of the shadow of the tree change.

Correct Option: Option C

1. The size and shape of the shadow of an object depend upon the angle of the source of light.
2. Here, the shadow of the tree is observed outside without any artificial source of light being present. Thus, the source of light here is the Sun.
3. Since the Sun changes its positions at different times, the angles of sunlight falling on the tree will be different for all the given times.
4. Therefore, both the shape and size of the shadow of the tree will change according to the different positions of the Sun.

Incorrect options:

Option A

With the shape of the shadow, its size will also change. So, this option is incorrect.

Option B

With the size of the shadow, its shape will also change. So, this option is incorrect.

Option D

Both the size and shape of the shadow will change. So, this option is incorrect.

Hence, option C is correct.