Comets, asteroids, and meteoroids may be responsible for delivering a significant fraction of the current supply of ___ to Earth. a. mass b. water c. oxygen d. carbon

The idea that space objects like comets, asteroids, and meteoroids could have delivered water to Earth is both fascinating and scientifically supported. Comets, for instance, contain a considerable amount of ice. When they travel through space and occasionally collide with planets, this ice can be delivered to the planet’s surface. Asteroids, though mostly rocky, can also carry hydrated minerals. These minerals contain water molecules that could have been released upon impacting Earth.

Such collisions were more frequent in the early solar system, a period known as the Late Heavy Bombardment. During this time, many space objects hit the Earth, potentially delivering substantial amounts of water. This water could have then contributed to Earth's oceans and other bodies of water. Scientists continue to study these processes to better understand how vital resources like water arrived on our planet.

Space objects, particularly comets and asteroids, hold a treasure trove of information about the early solar system. Comets are often described as 'dirty snowballs' because they are composed of ice, dust, and other organic compounds. When these objects come close to the Sun, they can develop spectacular tails, adding to their intrigue.

Asteroids, on the other hand, are mainly composed of rock and metal. Found predominantly in the asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter, these remnants from the solar system's formation offer insights into the building blocks that formed planets. Some asteroids also contain ice or hydrated minerals, indicating they, too, could have delivered water to Earth. By studying comets and asteroids, scientists can gain a deeper understanding of the materials that were available during the early stages of our planet’s development.

Earth's resources, such as water, minerals, and organic compounds, may have originated from space objects. During the formative years of our solar system, Earth was bombarded by numerous comets and asteroids. These impacts brought various elements that are essential for life.

The delivery of water by comets and asteroids could have been crucial in creating the conditions necessary for life to develop. Other space objects might have brought organic compounds, which are the building blocks of life. Minerals delivered by asteroids could have also contributed to Earth's geological diversity.

Understanding the role of these space objects in shaping Earth's resources can provide insights into the origins of life and the formation of our planet's ecosystems. Continuous research and space missions aim to gather more data to unravel these mysteries further.