What is a Lake?
A large water body of stagnant water within an area is defined as a lake. It can be either natural such as formed by glaciers, or man-made, such as reservoirs. The size of lakes differ greatly in size and depth. The physical characteristics of a lake are affected by wind, light, and temperature. Lakes are abundant in nitrogen and phosphorus allowing the growth of nutrient-rich plants in them. Many different species of plants and aquatic animals are found in it.
Characteristics of Lake
The following are some of the characteristics of a lake:
- The main sources of lake water are melting ice and snow, direct precipitation, springs, rivers, runoff from the land surface.
- A good supply of light, heat, oxygen, and nutrients is found in the upper part of lakes which is distributed properly by turbulence and currents. Mostly found organisms are plankton (mainly diatoms), algae, and flagellates.
- In the lower levels and in the sediments bacteria are the main forms of life found.
Difference Between Ocean, Rivers and Lakes
The difference between the oceans, rivers, and lakes is based on the water quality, habitat, and many other factors. Water is found in different forms across the globe: fresh or salty, long and narrow or wide and round, and partially or fully surrounded by land. An ocean is a large water body containing salt that surrounds a continent.
A river is a large flowing water body that ends up in an ocean whereas a lake is a large water body surrounded by land from all sides. Some major differences between oceans, rivers, and lakes should be noted. In this article, we will understand what an ocean is, what a river is, and what a lake is and their differences.
Table of Content
- What is an Ocean?
- What is a River?
- What is a Lake?
- Difference Between Ocean, Rivers, and Lakes
- Conclusion: Difference Between Ocean, Rivers and Lakes
- FAQs on Difference Between Ocean, Rivers and Lakes