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Multiple Choice
Where does most of the salt in Earth's oceans originate?
A
From volcanic eruptions under the sea
B
From the decomposition of marine organisms
C
From the weathering and erosion of rocks on land
D
From the direct precipitation of salt from the atmosphere
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Understand the concept of salt in Earth's oceans. Salt primarily comes from dissolved minerals, which are carried into the oceans through various processes.
Step 2: Recognize the role of weathering and erosion. Rocks on land contain minerals, including salts, which are broken down by weathering (chemical and physical processes) and erosion (movement of particles).
Step 3: Learn how these minerals are transported. Rainwater and rivers carry the dissolved minerals from the land into the oceans, contributing to the salinity of seawater.
Step 4: Compare other options. Volcanic eruptions under the sea and decomposition of marine organisms contribute to ocean chemistry but are not the primary sources of salt. Direct precipitation of salt from the atmosphere is also not a significant contributor.
Step 5: Conclude that the weathering and erosion of rocks on land is the primary source of most of the salt in Earth's oceans, as it provides a continuous supply of dissolved minerals over time.