How Earth Got Its Water
In How Earth Got Its Water, geologist Iain Stewart explains how Earth's first oceans were born from a rainstorm that lasted hundreds of thousands of years. But that epic downpour only gave Earth half its water — the rest came from space! Scientists crashed a satellite into a comet to uncover how these icy space rocks helped fill our oceans billions of years ago. And the story isn’t over — today, in East Africa, a massive crack is slowly splitting the continent, and one day, it could form a brand-new ocean! This video is excerpted from BBC’s Earth: The Power of the Planet, a documentary series in which Dr. Iain Stewart discovers how Earth's forces can shape nature, species, and even the climate.
Lesson Express
Q: How does the formation of a new ocean in East Africa show that Earth is still evolving?
A: The long fissure that appeared in 2005 in East Africa is a sign that Earth's surface is always changing. As the land continues to split, it suggests that one day, a new ocean could form in this region. This demonstrates that Earth’s geography is dynamic and continues to shape the planet's future.
Q: If Earth’s ocean basins are constantly changing, how might this affect life on Earth in the future?
A: Changing ocean basins could reshape coastlines, influence climate patterns, and impact where people can live. It could also affect ecosystems and marine life, as new environments form and old ones disappear. Understanding these changes helps us prepare for the long-term effects on human and animal life.
Q: How does knowing that Earth’s water has remained roughly the same for billions of years influence how we view water conservation today?
A: Realizing that Earth’s water is ancient and limited highlights the importance of conserving it. Since the amount of water hasn’t increased over billions of years, protecting our oceans and fresh-water sources is crucial for sustaining life in the future.
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