Final answer:
Lake water temperatures in the Rocky Mountain region are generally colder due to higher altitudes and slower heat exchange, while Grassland lakes have more pronounced temperature swings between seasons due to the flat, exposed terrain and regional climate.
Step-by-step explanation:
The water temperature in lakes in different regions varies because of several factors such as altitude, surrounding land cover, and climate. In the Rocky Mountain region, lakes likely experience greater seasonal temperature variations due to the higher altitudes and mountainous terrain. Water in these regions cools and heats more slowly, leading to colder lake temperatures, especially as the altitude increases and can be capped with snow even in tropical zones.
Contrastingly, lakes in the Grassland regions, which are primarily flat and exposed to more extreme temperature fluctuations, might have warmer temperatures in summer and colder temperatures in winter. The soil in grasslands can retain heat, influencing nearby water bodies. This area is known for its pronounced temperature swings between seasons, which would likewise affect lake temperatures.
In summary, the major differences in lake water temperature between the Rocky Mountains and Grasslands are influenced by specific heat, seasonal changes, altitude, and regional climate patterns that cause Rocky Mountain lakes to retain a relatively constant but colder temperature while Grassland lakes experience broader temperature swings.