US Great Lakes Quiz
Lakes names, location, economic/ecosystem role (10 questions).
US Great Lakes Quiz: Quick Study Notes
The Great Lakes—Superior, Michigan, Huron, Erie, and Ontario—form the largest freshwater system on Earth by total surface area. Straddling the US-Canada border, they contain about 21% of the world’s surface fresh water and serve as a vital economic artery for transportation and industry.
Key Takeaways
- HOMES is the mnemonic for Huron, Ontario, Michigan, Erie, Superior.
- Lake Erie is the shallowest and warmest; Lake Superior is the deepest and coldest.
- The St. Lawrence River connects the Great Lakes to the Atlantic Ocean.
- Chicago is a major metropolis located on the shores of Lake Michigan.
- The Straits of Mackinac connect Lake Michigan and Lake Huron technically into one body of water.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the names of the five Great Lakes?
They are Lake Superior, Lake Michigan, Lake Huron, Lake Erie, and Lake Ontario.
Which Great Lake is the largest?
Lake Superior is the largest by both surface area and volume.
Are the Great Lakes connected to the ocean?
Yes, they are connected to the Atlantic Ocean via the St. Lawrence Seaway and River.
Which Great Lake is entirely in the US?
Lake Michigan is the only Great Lake located entirely within the United States borders.
Why are the Great Lakes economically important?
They serve as a “marine highway” for transporting raw materials like iron ore and grain, supporting the manufacturing and agricultural sectors of the US and Canada.
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