What are the characteristics of surface water?

Surface water is subject to a variety of environmental factors, which contribute to its distinctive characteristics. Each of the mentioned factors—temperature changes, pH changes, and water level changes—play a significant role in the dynamics of surface water.

Temperature changes are commonplace due to exposure to sunlight and atmospheric conditions. This variability can affect the aquatic life, chemical reactions, and the overall ecology of the water body. Warmer temperatures may lead to increased rates of evaporation and influence the solubility of gases, like oxygen, which is crucial for fish and other marine organisms.

pH changes in surface water can occur due to natural processes such as runoff, which may introduce different minerals and organic materials into the water. These changes can impact the water's chemistry, affecting the health of aquatic ecosystems by altering the solubility of nutrients and toxins, which critical organisms rely on for survival.

Water level changes typically occur due to precipitation, evaporation, and surrounding environmental influences. These fluctuations can lead to habitat alterations, impacting the organisms that live in or around the water. For instance, lower water levels may reduce available habitat and concentration of pollutants, while higher levels might lead to flooding and habitat destruction.

Taken together, these characteristics illustrate the dynamic nature of surface water systems, where