What is the distribution of water on Earth?

The distribution of water on Earth reflects the vast prevalence of saltwater in the world's oceans. Approximately 97 percent of the Earth's water is found in the oceans, which is classified as saltwater. This leaves only about 3 percent of the total water on Earth as freshwater, which is used for drinking, agriculture, and other essential needs.

The small fraction of freshwater is primarily stored in glaciers and ice caps, while an even smaller portion is found in rivers, lakes, and groundwater. Understanding this distribution is crucial for comprehending global water resources and challenges, particularly in relation to water scarcity and the importance of managing freshwater sources effectively.