The correct option is 1 only
Explanation
The hydrological cycle, or water cycle, describes the continuous movement of water on, above, and below the surface of the Earth. It operates as a closed system where the total amount of water remains constant, though its state and location change continuously.
Statement-wise Analysis:
- Statement 1 is Correct: The hydrological cycle involves the circulation of water through processes such as evaporation, condensation, precipitation, infiltration, runoff, and subsurface flow. It facilitates the continuous exchange of water between the atmosphere, land surface, subsurface (groundwater), and living organisms (via transpiration and intake).
- Statement 2 is Incorrect: The oceans contain the vast majority of Earth's water. Approximately 97.3% (or roughly 97%) of planetary water is found in the oceans. Only about 2.5% to 3% is fresh water, which includes glaciers, ice caps, groundwater, and surface water. The figure of 30% is factually wrong.
- Statement 3 is Incorrect: While the total amount of renewable water on Earth remains roughly constant due to the closed nature of the hydrological cycle, the demand for water is increasing rapidly. This rise in demand is driven by population growth, industrialization, urbanization, and agricultural expansion, leading to water stress in many regions.
Key Takeaway:
The hydrological cycle ensures the circulation of water across the hydrosphere, atmosphere, and lithosphere. While oceans hold nearly 97% of Earth's water, the global demand for the limited freshwater resources is increasing, not decreasing.