The oceans cover approximately what percent of Earth's surface and receive approximately what percent of the Sun's energy?

• A. 60% and 60%
• B. 67% and 67%
• C. 70% and 70%
• D. 75% and 75%

Answer: (B)

The key idea is how much of Earth's surface is covered by oceans and how much solar energy they absorb. Oceans make up about two-thirds of the planet’s surface, roughly 67%. Because sunlight tends to be absorbed rather than reflected (water has a relatively low albedo, especially in clear conditions), the oceans take in a large share of the Sun’s energy. When you combine these two facts, the oceans absorb about the same fraction of incoming solar energy as their area suggests—around 67%.

The other numbers are outside the common broad estimate used in geography: 60% would understate the ocean area and energy absorption, while 70% and 75% are higher than the typical approximation.