What is the primary role of the water cycle in sustaining life on Earth?

• A. It increases the salinity of oceans, making them more habitable for freshwater species.
• B. It converts liquid water into solid minerals essential for plant growth.
• C. It continuously recycles water, distributing it across ecosystems and making it available for organisms.
• D. It prevents the formation of clouds, reducing precipitation worldwide.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Begin by understanding the water cycle, which is the continuous movement of water through the Earth's atmosphere, surface, and underground. It involves processes such as evaporation, condensation, precipitation, infiltration, and runoff.
2. Step 2: Recognize the importance of the water cycle in distributing water across ecosystems. This ensures that water is available for organisms in various habitats, supporting life and maintaining ecological balance.
3. Step 3: Evaluate the incorrect options. For example, increasing ocean salinity does not make oceans habitable for freshwater species, and converting liquid water into solid minerals is not a function of the water cycle.
4. Step 4: Understand that the water cycle does not prevent cloud formation or reduce precipitation. In fact, it facilitates these processes, which are essential for replenishing water sources on land.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the primary role of the water cycle is to recycle water and distribute it across ecosystems, making it accessible for organisms and sustaining life on Earth.