why has the clock at the top of my screen disappeared?

I have no clue where the time disappeared to but the lock icon means you have the screen orientation locked.

Try flipping the side switch and see if that unlocks the screen. If not, double tap the home button and swipe all the way to the right and there will be a lock icon on the left side. Tap that to unlock the screen.

Read this - understanding the side switch.

http://support.apple.com/kb/HT4085

That little lock icon means that your iPad is passcode locked.

Type in the correct passcode and that lock icon will be replaced by the clock.

Well I stand corrected again. I don't use a passcode and never have. I learn something new every day. Thanks!!!

😀

There are spies everywhere! 👿

If your iPad should fall into the wrong hands with naughty minds, they have access to all your private information.

Also, if some obnoxious clown should set a passcode on your unprotected iPad ... you won't even be able to use your own iPad anymore... 😢