What percentage of the Earth's surface is covered by oceans?

The answer is based on the widely accepted scientific understanding that approximately 71% of the Earth's surface is covered by oceans. This figure is often rounded to 70.8% for simplicity in various contexts, which is why this option is the most accurate representation.

Oceans play a crucial role in regulating the Earth's climate, supporting biodiversity, and facilitating global trade and transportation. Recognizing the coverage of oceans is important in fields like hydrographic surveying, as it helps professionals understand water bodies' dimensions and their influence on coastal and marine environments.

The other percentages offered do not accurately reflect the actual coverage of oceans on Earth. For instance, stating that 60% of the surface is covered underestimates the vast expanse of ocean, while figures like 80% and 90% overshoot the reality, emphasizing the importance of using the correct data within scientific contexts.