Every drop of ocean water contains billions of water molecules, each made of one oxygen and two hydrogen atoms, forming the transparent substance that fills Earth's water bodies.
Composition of Ocean Water
Two theories explain our oceans' origins: Earth retained ice from its formation, or ice-rich asteroids delivered water after Earth's creation and the moon-forming collision.
Origin of Earth's Water
The Challenger Deep in the Mariana Trench, at 36,070 feet deep, is the Earth's deepest point, formed by the subduction of the Pacific Plate beneath the Mariana Plate.
Deepest Ocean Trench
Mauna Kea, an inactive volcano, is the tallest mountain on Earth when measured from its oceanic base to summit, rising 33,500 feet, surpassing Mount Everest.
Tallest Mountain Underwater
Most of the ocean is in perpetual darkness since sunlight penetrates only up to 330 feet, while the average ocean depth is over 12,400 feet, hiding unknown deep-sea life.
Ocean Darkness
Oceans contribute significantly to oxygen production through phytoplankton, which photosynthesize like land plants, removing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen.
Oxygen Production
It takes about 1,000 years for water to circulate globally, driven by dense, salty water sinking near Norway and Antarctica, mixing with warmer waters, and rising to the surface.
Global Ocean Circulation
Earth is uniquely positioned in the "goldilocks zone," maintaining liquid water on its surface due to optimal temperature and atmospheric pressure, crucial for sustaining life.
Unique Earthly Water