Final answer:
The features that distinguish a pond from a lake are smaller size and no temperature gradient.
The features that distinguish a pond from a lake are smaller size and no temperature gradient (Option A).
Step-by-step explanation:
A pond is typically smaller in size compared to a lake, which is usually larger. Additionally, ponds do not exhibit a temperature gradient, meaning that the temperature does not stratify or vary between layers of water in a pond.
For example, during the summer in temperate regions, lakes experience thermal stratification where the upper layer of water is warmed by the sun and does not mix with the cooler water below. This creates a distinct temperature gradient in the lake. However, ponds do not have this temperature stratification.