what will happen if the surface of the earth is covered by lava instead of water

If the Earth's surface were covered by lava instead of water, it would result in a series of extreme and fundamentally disruptive changes to our planet's environment and ability to support life: 1. **Mass Extinction**: With all water replaced by lava, the immediate consequence would be the end of all aquatic and most terrestrial life forms due to the extreme heat and inhospitable conditions. 2. **Dramatic Climate Change**: The Earth's climate would drastically change, with global temperatures soaring to unbearable levels. The absence of the moderating influence of water bodies and the presence of lava could lead to an increase in global mean temperatures. 3. **Atmosphere Alteration**: The volcanic gases released by the lava, such as sulfur dioxide and carbon dioxide, would alter the composition of the atmosphere, potentially leading to acid rain and increased greenhouse gases. 4. **Erosion and Landform Changes**: Lava would continuously reshape the Earth's surface by cooling and solidifying into new rock formations. This would lead to significant and rapid changes in the landscape. 5. **Acidification of Remaining Water**: Any residual water remaining in underground reservoirs or at high altitudes would risk being contaminated by acidic gases and lava, making it unusable for life as we know it. 6. **Disruption of the Water Cycle**: The water cycle, which includes evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and runoff, would cease to function, disrupting the Earth's hydrological balance. 7. **Loss of Agriculture**: Agriculture, which relies on water for irrigation and the growth of crops, would collapse, leading to food scarcity and famine. 8. **Disappearance of Oceanic Life**: The oceans, home to a vast array of marine life, would be replaced by lava, leading to the extinction of marine ecosystems. 9. **Geological Activity**: There would be an increase in geological activity due to the continuous movement and cooling of lava, leading to more frequent volcanic eruptions and earthquakes. 10. **Human Survival**: Human survival would be extremely challenging due to the lack of potable water, food, and the inhospitable environment. Human civilization as we know it would not be sustainable. 11. **Disappearance of Clouds and Weather Patterns**: The absence of water would lead to the disappearance of clouds, changing weather patterns and eliminating rainfall. 12. **Radiation**: The loss of water could also lead to higher levels of solar radiation reaching the Earth's surface, causing harm to any remaining life forms. This hypothetical scenario presents a dire outcome for all life on Earth, emphasizing the critical role that water plays in maintaining the delicate balance that allows life to thrive.