Seal and sea lion, are they the same?

the above question was brought up by my student. I like this question a lot and thought of bringing this up to you too. =)

So my dear students,

What's the difference between seal and sea lion?

The differences are very clearly being illustrated by this picture. =)



Sea lions show external ear flaps while seals show only ear holes.
Sea lions have long, hairless, front flippers with short nails while seals have short, fur-covered front flippers with long claws.
Sea lions can rotate their hind flippers forward to walk on land while seals hold their hind flippers straight and move on land in a forward rolling motion of their bellies.
Sea lions whiskers are smooth while most seal whiskers are beaded or crimped.

so now you all are experts in identifying seals and sea lions! =D