Fact Check: "Is there water above the earth?"
What We Know
The claim that there is water above the Earth is misleading. While there is a significant amount of water on Earth, primarily in the form of oceans, lakes, and glaciers, the notion of water existing "above" the Earth in a conventional sense is not supported by scientific evidence. The U.S. Geological Survey indicates that about 71% of the Earth's surface is covered by water, with oceans containing approximately 96.5% of all Earth's water (USGS, USGS).
Recent research has revealed that there may be substantial amounts of water trapped deep within the Earth's mantle, specifically in a region known as the "transition zone," located between 250 and 410 miles beneath the surface. This water is not in liquid form but is chemically bound within minerals like ringwoodite (Northwestern University). The study conducted by researchers from Northwestern University and the University of New Mexico suggests that the amount of water in this form could be equivalent to several times the volume of all Earth's oceans (BNL).
Analysis
The claim implies a misunderstanding of the term "above the Earth." Scientifically, "above" typically refers to the atmosphere or space, where water exists primarily as vapor. The studies referenced indicate that while there is water in the mantle, it is not in a form that is accessible or observable in the same way as surface water. The water found in the mantle is bound within rock structures and does not contribute to surface water bodies.
The sources used to support this claim include credible scientific studies and reports from reputable institutions. The research published in the journal Science by Jacobsen and Schmandt provides direct evidence of water in the Earth's mantle, but it is crucial to note that this water is not "above" the Earth in the traditional sense of being part of the atmosphere or surface (Northwestern University).
Moreover, the U.S. Geological Survey provides a comprehensive overview of the distribution of water on Earth, emphasizing that the significant reservoirs of water are primarily found in oceans, glaciers, and underground aquifers, rather than in the atmosphere (USGS).
Conclusion
The claim that there is water "above the Earth" is False. While there is water present in the Earth's mantle, it is not in a form that can be classified as being "above" the Earth in the conventional sense. The water in the mantle is chemically bound within minerals and does not contribute to the surface water that is essential for life on Earth. Therefore, the assertion lacks scientific backing when interpreted literally.
Sources
- New Evidence for Oceans of Water Deep in the Earth
- New Evidence for Oceans of Water Deep in the Earth
- How Much Water is There on Earth? | U.S. Geological Survey
- The distribution of water on, in, and above the Earth
- Above the Earth, Below the Surface: Landsat’s Role in ...
- Studying Earth's Stratospheric Water Vapor
- Above the Earth, Below the Surface: Landsat ... - Science@NASA
- Earth may have been a water world 3 billion years ago
