Detailed Explanation:

Scientific studies confirm that the Earth's rotational axis is gradually shifting, a phenomenon known as polar drift. Melting polar ice redistributes mass from the poles toward the equator, changing the Earth's moment of inertia and affecting its rotation. Solar flares and CMEs do impact the upper atmosphere, but they do not significantly alter the Earth's rotational axis.

✅ Statement I is Correct: Satellite observations show that Earth's rotational axis is drifting and its rotation rate is changing slightly.

✅ Statement II is Correct: Solar flares and CMEs transfer large amounts of energy to the thermosphere and magnetosphere.

✅ Statement III is Correct: Melted polar ice redistributes water toward lower latitudes, especially near the equator.

❌ Statement II does NOT explain Statement I: Solar activity affects the atmosphere and satellites but not the Earth's rotational axis significantly.

✅ Statement III explains Statement I: Redistribution of mass from poles to equator changes Earth's moment of inertia, causing polar drift and slight rotational changes.

Concept Note:

Moment of Inertia is the resistance of a rotating object to changes in its rotation. When mass moves away from the rotational axis (toward the equator), the moment of inertia increases, leading to changes in rotational speed and axis orientation.