What are the main components of the hydrosphere and how do they connect?

The hydrosphere is the portion of the Earth that is covered in water and includes all forms of water, such as oceans, seas, lakes, rivers, groundwater, and even the water vapor in the atmosphere. The main components of the hydrosphere are the oceans, which cover about 71% of the Earth's surface, and the freshwater bodies, including lakes, rivers, and groundwater. These components are interconnected through the water cycle, as water evaporates from the oceans and other water bodies, forms clouds, and falls back to the Earth as precipitation, replenishing the different water sources. The water also flows from higher elevations to lower ones through rivers and streams, ultimately making its way back to the oceans, completing the continuous cycle. This interconnectedness is essential for the circulation and distribution of water across the Earth's surface, influencing climate, providing habitats for numerous species, and supporting life on the planet.

This mind map was published on 18 December 2023 and has been viewed 53 times.