The phrase near neighbour, as used in the passage, shows that
moonlight generally shares many characteristics with 'earth light'
moonlight shines brighter on the earth's surface than perhaps elsewhere
the earth actually shares boundaries with the moon
the earth is nearer to the moon than to the sun
Explanation
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Discussions (1)
Report on the Incorrect Selection of Option C
Background
In the given passage, the phrase “its near neighbour, the earth” is used to describe the spatial relationship between the Moon and the Earth. The correct interpretation hinges on understanding “near” as indicating physical proximity in space.
1. Restatement of Option C
> C. “the earth actually shares boundaries with the moon”
This choice asserts that the Earth and the Moon have shared or touching physical boundaries.
2. Why Option C Is Incorrect
1. Physical Impossibility of Shared Boundaries
- By definition, two celestial bodies that “share boundaries” would be in contact. The Moon orbits at an average distance of about 384,400 km from Earth. They are clearly separated by a vast expanse of space.
2. Misreading of “Neighbour”
- The term “neighbour” in astronomy simply denotes the closest significant body, not contiguity or direct contact.
3. Contextual Clues in the Passage
- The passage repeatedly discusses the Moon’s gravitational and visual relationships with the Earth—its tides, phases, and reflected light—without implying any physical touching or boundary-sharing.
3. Correct Interpretation
- Option D(“the earth is nearer to the moon than to the sun”) accurately captures the intended meaning. It reflects the fact that the Moon’s closest major celestial companion is Earth, not that they physically abut one another.
4. Conclusion
Option C reflects a fundamental misunderstanding of both astronomical terminology and the specific usage of “near neighbour” in the passage. Instead of implying shared boundaries, the phrase denotes relative proximity in space. Therefore, Option C is incorrect. The phrase correctly indicates that Earth is simply the closest large body to the Moon—making Option D the valid choice.
