![]() For example, too much sediment is harmful to the surrounding ecosystems, while insufficient levels of dissolved oxygen in the water lead to hypoxic conditions that can harm ecosystems. ![]() ![]() Some of these can be considered pollution, while others are necessary for health of ecosystems. ![]() It is important to note that although the hydrosphere is primarily composed of water, there are also some "impurities" or additions to this water that include dissolved minerals, dissolved gases, and particulates. The exchanging of water is thus a vital part of the hydrosphere. The continuous movement and exchange of water helps to form currents that move warm water from the tropics to the poles and help regulate the temperature of the Earth. The motion of the hydrosphere and the exchange of water between the hydrosphere and cryosphere is the basis of the hydrologic cycle. Overall, the hydrosphere is very large, with the oceans alone covering about 71% of the surface area of Earth. The hydrosphere includes water storage areas such as oceans, seas, lakes, ponds, rivers, and streams. The hydrosphere is the component of the Earth that is composed of all liquid water found on the planet. ![]() The spring shown above would be considered part of the hydrosphere. ![]()
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