Final answer:
An artificial channel for bringing water from a distance is called an aqueduct. These structures have been used since Roman times and are still used today, such as the California Aqueduct in the United States. They can transport both water and aquatic life across large distances, which may lead to environmental and political issues.
Step-by-step explanation:
An artificial channel or large pipe for bringing water from a distance is called an aqueduct. The Romans were famous for their extensive use of aqueducts, which were primarily used to transport water from its source to the city. These aqueducts were often complex structures that sometimes included arched bridges. The impressive engineering of the aqueducts also utilized tunnels and channels in the ground to convey the water most efficiently. In the Western United States, aqueducts like the California Aqueduct still play a critical role in moving water across significant distances to meet the demands of rapid population growth and industrialization.
Additionally, aqueducts are not just for transporting water; they can also move aquatic animals between ecosystems, as seen with the numerous species transported in the California Aqueduct. This ability to transfer water to where it is needed can be quite controversial due to potential environmental impact, such as drought conditions in source areas and interference in naturally occurring ecosystems.