Dear Student,

with respect to the differences between surface water and ground water, Surface water is found in lakes, rivers and streams and is drawn into the public water supply by an intake. Surface water is just what the name implies, water found in a river, lake or other surface cavity whereas, groundwater is water contained in or by a subsurface layer of soil or rock.

The factors responsible for the degradation of water are,

• acid precipitation
• sewage and waste water
• oil pollutants
• industrial waste dumping