Which lakes are characterized by detaining water for extended periods?

Closed-basin lakes are characterized by detaining water for extended periods because they are formed in areas where the water has no outflow. This means that the water that enters these lakes, either through precipitation, floodwaters, or surface runoff, remains trapped within the basin. Over time, the water can accumulate, and processes such as evaporation may also contribute to the concentration of salts or other materials within the lake.

In contrast, drainage lakes typically have defined outlets, allowing water to flow out. Seepage lakes primarily receive water through groundwater and precipitation, and they may have limited retention compared to closed-basin lakes due to the potential for both inflow and outflow. Glacial lakes are formed by the melting of glaciers, and while they can hold water for a substantial time, they are often part of larger hydrological systems with downstream flow, which differentiates them from the more isolated nature of closed-basin lakes.

Overall, the defining feature of closed-basin lakes is their ability to retain water over long periods due to the lack of an outlet, making them unique in hydrology and significantly affecting their water quality and ecosystem dynamics.