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

Options

A. The shape of the shadow of the tree changes but the size remains thesame.
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

To solve the question about Paheli's observations of the shadow of a tree at different times of the day, we can follow these steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Shadows**: Shadows are formed when an object blocks light from a light source. In this case, the sun is the light source.

2. **Position of the Sun**: The position of the sun changes throughout the day. In the morning (8:00 a.m.), the sun is low in the sky, and as it rises to its highest point at noon (12:00 p.m.), the shadows become shorter. In the afternoon (3:00 p.m.), the sun starts to lower again, and the shadows lengthen.

3. **Observing the Shadow at Different Times**:
- At **8:00 a.m.**, the shadow of the tree will be longer and point towards the west.
- At **12:00 noon**, the shadow will be at its shortest and may point directly below the tree (depending on the exact location).
- At **3:00 p.m.**, the shadow will again be longer and point towards the east.

4. **Conclusion about Shape and Size**: Based on the observations:
- The **size** of the shadow changes (it is longer in the morning and afternoon, and shortest at noon).
- The **shape** of the shadow can also change slightly depending on the angle of the sun and the shape of the tree.

5. **Choosing the Closest Statement**: The correct statement would be one that acknowledges that both the size and shape of the shadow change throughout the day.

6. **Final Answer**: The closest statement to Paheli's observations is that both the shape and size of the shadow of the tree change.