In the early stages of Earth's formation, volcanic eruptions released large amounts of water vapor into the atmosphere. As the planet cooled and the atmosphere condensed, this water vapor eventually rained down and filled the oceans and other water bodies.
In addition to volcanic outgassing, it is believed that a significant amount of water was also delivered to Earth through the impact of carbonaceous chondrites, which are meteorites that are rich in water-bearing minerals. When these meteorites collided with Earth, they released their water content, contributing to the planet's overall water budget.
Over time, the water on Earth has continuously cycled through various processes such as evaporation, precipitation, and the formation of ice caps. These processes have shaped the distribution and availability of water on Earth and have played a vital role in supporting the development and survival of life.
