The correct answer is option C, which is the hydrosphere.

The hydrosphere refers to the part of the Earth that contains water. It includes all forms of water found on our planet, such as oceans, seas, lakes, rivers, groundwater, and even water vapor in the atmosphere.

Here is a detailed explanation of the hydrosphere:

Definition of Hydrosphere:
The hydrosphere is one of the four interconnected spheres of the Earth system, which also include the atmosphere, lithosphere, and biosphere. It is the sphere that encompasses all water on Earth, including the water found on the surface and underground, as well as the water vapor in the atmosphere.

Key Points about the Hydrosphere:

1. Oceans and Seas:
The largest part of the hydrosphere is made up of oceans and seas, which cover about 71% of the Earth's surface. These bodies of saltwater are interconnected and play a crucial role in regulating the Earth's climate and supporting various ecosystems.

2. Freshwater:
Although the majority of the Earth's water is found in oceans, there are also freshwater sources within the hydrosphere. These include lakes, rivers, streams, and groundwater. Freshwater is essential for drinking, agriculture, and various other human activities.

3. Water Cycle:
The hydrosphere is involved in the water cycle, which is the continuous movement of water between the Earth's surface and the atmosphere. The water cycle includes processes such as evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and runoff, which help distribute water across the planet.

4. Importance to Life:
Water is crucial for all forms of life on Earth. It provides habitat for aquatic organisms, serves as a medium for various chemical reactions in living organisms, and plays a vital role in regulating temperature and climate.

5. Human Impact:
Human activities can have a significant impact on the hydrosphere. Pollution, overfishing, habitat destruction, and climate change can all negatively affect the quality and availability of water resources, threatening both aquatic ecosystems and human well-being.

In conclusion, the hydrosphere refers to the part of the Earth that contains water, including oceans, seas, lakes, rivers, groundwater, and water vapor in the atmosphere. It plays a vital role in supporting life on Earth and is interconnected with other Earth spheres.

The part of earth that contains water is called the Hydrosphere.
The hydrosphere is the layer of Earth that consists of water, including oceans, seas, lakes, rivers, groundwater, and even water vapor in the atmosphere. It plays a crucial role in supporting life and influencing various natural processes on Earth.
Key points about the hydrosphere:
- The hydrosphere covers approximately 71% of the Earth's surface.
- It includes all forms of water, whether it is in liquid, solid (ice), or gaseous (water vapor) state.
- Oceans are the largest bodies of water in the hydrosphere, covering about 97% of the Earth's water.
- The hydrosphere interacts with other Earth spheres such as the atmosphere and lithosphere, influencing weather patterns, erosion, and the distribution of nutrients.
- Water is constantly cycling through the hydrosphere in a process called the water cycle, which includes evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and runoff.
- The hydrosphere is essential for supporting and sustaining life on Earth, providing habitats for various organisms and serving as a source of freshwater for human consumption and agriculture.
In conclusion, the hydrosphere is the part of the Earth that contains water, encompassing all the water bodies on Earth, including oceans, lakes, rivers, and groundwater. It is a vital component of the Earth's system, influencing climate, weather patterns, and supporting various forms of life.