TED-ED: What's so great about the Great Lakes? - Cheri Dobbs and Jennifer Gabrys

The North American Great Lakes, known as America's inland seas, are a massive freshwater system formed over 10,000 years ago during the last ice age. They contain 20% of the world's fresh surface water and support diverse ecosystems. Water flows from Lake Superior to Lake Ontario, providing resources and benefits but also facing challenges like pollution and invasive species. Conservation efforts by the US and Canada aim to protect this vital natural resource.

What geological event led to the formation of the Great Lakes?

• Meteor impacts

• Earthquakes

• Retreat of glaciers

• Volcanic eruptions

How much of the world's fresh surface water is contained in the Great Lakes?

• 10%

• 15%

• 25%

• 20%

Which lake is known for having the world's largest freshwater dunes?

• Lake Superior

• Lake Ontario

• Lake Michigan

• Lake Erie

What is a significant environmental challenge facing the Great Lakes?

• Deforestation

• Invasive species

• Overfishing

• Desertification

What is one of the benefits provided by the Great Lakes?

• Natural water filtration

• Increased desertification

• Higher temperatures

• Increased volcanic activity