Could Entirely Water-Covered Planets Exist in the Universe?

A World of Pure Water

Oceans cover most of the Earth’s surface, yet they represent only a thin layer compared to the planet as a whole. Even so, scientists imagine an entirely different scenario: What if Earth were completely covered in water with no continents or dry land at all? Modern astronomical estimates indicate that these water worlds are not merely science fiction, and vast numbers of them may exist scattered throughout the universe.

Between Gas Giants and Rocks

In our solar system, planets clearly divide into two main groups: massive gas giants such as Jupiter and Saturn, and rocky planets similar to Earth, Mercury, and Mars. Yet deep space hides a much greater diversity. Between these two types lies a category known as “super-Earths”—planets that exceed our planet in mass and size while still remaining rocky in nature.

Secrets of Oceanic Planets in the Universe

Scientists hypothesize that planets falling within a certain size range may be entirely “oceanic planets,” where extremely deep water floods their surfaces without a trace of any exposed rock. These worlds, if they exist, will feature unique and strange physical characteristics, such as unusual ice layers at the bottom of their fathomless oceans due to immense pressure. The search for them continues to open a new horizon in our understanding of the origin of water and life in the universe.

By: Hany Sallam

Source: universemagazine.com

Published by Hany Sallam

Hany Sallam, Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Scientific Magazine Ahram
An independent Arabic science magazine operating since 2008, dedicated to simplifying science, technology, space, natural phenomena and scientific stories for Arabic readers. The magazine includes sections such as “Zodiac Group” and “Stories and Tales”, alongside science topics that combine knowledge with a spirit of discovery. It operates independently and is not affiliated with Al-Ahram Press Foundation or any governmental body.