Question

What percentage of total water is in the ocean?

• A. 93.5
• B. 96.5
• C. 95.5
• D. 97.5

Hint:

While 96.5% of water is in the ocean, only about 1% of all Earth's water is easily accessible freshwater for human use.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

The distribution of water on Earth is highly uneven, with the vast majority being saline water held in the global oceans.

Step 1: Analyze the options.
According to geological and hydrological data (such as that from the USGS), approximately 96.5% of Earth's water is located in the oceans. This water is saline and not directly suitable for human consumption without desalination.

Step 2: Compare with freshwater.
The remaining 3.5% of Earth's water is freshwater, most of which is locked in glaciers, ice caps, and deep groundwater. Only a tiny fraction is available in rivers and lakes.

Step 3: Conclusion.
The most accurate figure representing the oceanic share of total global water is 96.5%.
Final Answer: \[ \boxed{(B) \, 96.5} \]