Chapter 29, Problem 4RAT

Development of Earth’s ocean was likely due to

(a) water-rich meteors bombarding on Earth surface.

(b) volcanic outgassing, followed by cooler temperatures in Precambrian time.

(c) slow convection in the mantle.

(d) volcanic outgassing in the early Paleozoic.

To determine

The correct option for the statement “Development of Earth’s ocean was likely due to”.

Answer to Problem 4RAT

The correct option for the statement “Development of Earth’s ocean was likely due to” is option (d).

Explanation of Solution

The formation of the ocean starts when the Earth gets cooled and water vapors with other gases from the molten rocks of the Earth are collected in the atmosphere. These water vapor and gases fall on Earth in the form of rain after Earth reaches to its coolest temperature.

The Paleozoic era is the time when sea level rose and fell worldwide. This allowed seawater to cover different continents and progression and diversion of seawater life. In this time, different new species were found, which increased the diversity of marine life.

Conclusion:

Therefore, The correct option for the statement “Development of Earth’s ocean was likely due to” is option (d).