Final answer:
The statement that many living things depend on the ocean for food, transportation, and a suitable climate is true. The ocean's ecosystems provide oxygen through phytoplankton and influence the climate through heat absorption and transportation. Furthermore, human dependence on the ocean affects marine life and ecosystems through various activities.
Step-by-step explanation:
Many living things indeed depend on the ocean for food, transportation, and a suitable climate, making the statement true. The oceans cover 71% of the Earth's surface and play a critical role in supporting a vast array of life forms, from the tiniest microorganisms to the largest marine mammals. Phytoplankton, for example, are essential producers in the oceanic food web and are responsible for releasing over 50% of the oxygen produced on Earth through photosynthesis, which is vital for human breathing and all terrestrial life.
Furthermore, the physical diversity of the ocean influences the unique adaptations seen in marine species, which are essential for the survival of the diverse communities within various oceanic zones.
The interdependence of living things in the ocean environment also extends to human activities, such as fishing, which impacts populations and ecosystems. Pollution, coastal development, and climate change further affect ocean health and, by extension, the organisms that depend on it, including humans. Additionally, global commerce such as shipping and aquaculture influences oceanic ecosystems through the introduction of non-native species and the exploitation of natural resources.
Given the significant influence of the ocean on the world's climates, its ability to moderate temperatures through heat storage and transport via currents is crucial. Maritime climates tend to be milder because of the ocean's ability to absorb solar energy, reducing temperature variations both daily and seasonally. This influence on climate and weather patterns has a profound impact on agricultural productivity and the general well-being of human societies across the globe.