The Differences between Lakes and Rivers Science Game

This science game helps children practice the differences between lakes and rivers. All freshwater bodies are not the same as lakes. These bodies of water have seasonal patterns and change their water levels over time. Lakes fill up when the snow melts in spring. The rain stops causing rivers and lakes to slowly return to their original levels. This article will cover important facts about rivers and lakes.

Freshwater bodies
There are many types of freshwater bodies. These water bodies are called rivers and streams. These waters may start at the headwaters which can be a spring, snowmelt or other source. They then move to an estuary, where they eventually flow into the ocean. Their characteristics change on the way to the mouth. The water at the source is typically cooler than the water at the mouth, and it has a higher level of oxygen. It is home to more freshwater fishes and other organisms. As the river reaches its middle section, species diversity increases.
The world's freshwater rivers and lakes account for a tiny fraction of the total water available on Earth, but they are an important source to life. They make up 0.3% of all freshwater. The remaining 1.2% of freshwater is found in inland seas and salt water lakes. Rivers and lakes are the main sources of drinking water for humans. These bodies of water are often ignored and overlooked because of their small size.
Man-made water bodies
Man-made water bodies have played an integral part in civilization's history throughout all of human history. Man-made lakes and irrigation canals are two examples. To build structures that channel or contain water, humans have relied on other water sources.
Many environmental changes are caused by human activities, including the creation artificial water bodies. Small dams are used in sub-Saharan Africa for hydropower generation, irrigation and water supply. Large reservoirs combine the functions and benefits of rivers and lakes. These structures create ecosystems with characteristics that are both lotic- and lentic. These waters are vital for the survival of fish and the development of many species.
Although most people associate water and rivers, they can also be referred to streams or lakes. Streams are smaller versions rivers. Rivers are made mostly of freshwater, and they eventually empty into the sea. Rivers are vital for transportation, energy and fishing.
Water bodies found in nature
Some waters are created by man (e.g. reservoirs), while others are natural. Some are navigable while others provide habitats for specific species. This holds true for water bodies that are merely puddles or rivers, but not all.
Many rivers and lakes have interconnected channels, or basins. This means that water flows between them. Many aquatic organisms can live in rivers and lakes. Some animals prefer to live in lakes while others prefer rivers but also enjoy time in the lakes. Some fish species overwinter in the river mud, while others stay active during winter. The characteristics of rivers and lakes vary from the source to their mouths, which makes them unique.
The functions of rivers and lakes for aquatic life
Temperature affects the amount of aquatic life found in rivers and lakes. Temperature variations can cause a mixture between nutrient-rich bottom water and upper water that brings this resource to the surface. It is vital to maintain a healthy level of dissolved oxygen in lakes. Fish have evolved to spawn when food is plentiful and temperatures are within their tolerance range. These water bodies can be heated by industrial effluents, which can negatively affect aquatic life.
Sources for freshwater
The survival of life on Earth depends on freshwater. It is the most plentiful type of water and accounts for around 20% of the total world's water supply. Streams, rivers and lakes store freshwater on the land. These sources are the most common, but the availability of freshwater is not the same everywhere. Where does freshwater come? Students are encouraged to learn more about the hydrological cycle, which provides the answer.