New research suggests Earth’s water was created during planet formation, challenging asteroid theory

Recent research has challenged the prevailing theory that Earth’s water originated from deep space through asteroid strikes.

Instead, scientists from Carnegie Science and UCLA propose that the planet’s water was created through chemical interactions between hydrogen-rich atmospheres and magma oceans during its formation.

The study draws on exoplanet research to suggest that Earth’s early interactions between the magma ocean and a molecular hydrogen proto-atmosphere produced vast quantities of water.

These findings contradict the popular theory that asteroid strikes were responsible for the majority of Earth’s water.

Although other water sources are possible, the researchers suggest that they are not necessary to explain the planet’s current state.