01/02/2015

Could an ‘Ocean’ of Water Be Trapped Within the Earth?

10:54 minutes

Water covers 75 percent of the earth’s surface, but scientists are still trying to unravel its origin. One hypothesis suggests that crashing comets could have delivered the liquid, but some scientists say we should look under our feet rather than up towards the skies. Geophysicist Wendy Panero discusses how rocks deep within the earth’s mantle can trap water, and how this can enhance our understanding of the water cycle.

Segment Guests

Wendy Panero

Wendy Panero is an associate professor of geological sciences at Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio.

Meet the Producer

About Alexa Lim

Alexa Lim was a senior producer for Science Friday. Her favorite stories involve space, sound, and strange animal discoveries.