JOURNAL ARTICLE

HOW EARTH GOT ITS WATER.

  • Published In: How It Works, 2023, n. 184. P. 56 1 of 3

  • Database: Science Reference Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: MAY, ANDREW 3 of 3

Abstract

Earth's water likely came from space, with comets and asteroids being major contributors. While Earth is often described as a "water planet," water actually makes up just 0.05% of its mass. The outer regions of the Solar System, where comets originate, contain a significant amount of frozen water. However, the flavor of water found in comets differs from Earth's water. Recent studies of meteorites and asteroid samples have shown that their water composition closely matches that of Earth's oceans, suggesting that incoming asteroids played a significant role in bringing water to our planet. Additionally, there is evidence of water deep below Earth's surface, locked within rocks and minerals. [Extracted from the article]

Additional Information

  • Source:How It Works. 2023/12, Issue 184, p56
  • Document Type:Question & Answer
  • Subject Area:Science
  • Publication Date:2023
  • ISSN:2041-7322
  • Accession Number:173685526
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