What percentage of the Earth's water is found in the oceans?

The choice that states 97% is accurate because it reflects the vast amount of water contained within the Earth's oceans. Oceans cover about 71% of the Earth's surface and hold approximately 97% of the total water on the planet. This figure emphasizes the ocean's role as the primary reservoir of the Earth's water resources, making it a crucial component of the global water cycle.

The other percentages do not correctly represent the proportion of Earth's water found in oceans. While freshwater lakes, glaciers, and ice caps contain the remaining 3%, the numbers in the other options do not align with established scientific understanding regarding the distribution of Earth's water. The clarity and significance of the oceans’ volume highlight their importance in discussions about marine ecosystems, climate regulation, and hydrological processes.