yes there is.
I don't know of any visual differences between them, but if you look up the block number at mortec.com you might be able to find it. The block number is stamped into a boss on the block just forward of the passenger side head.
There is no difference what so ever. Same engines.
Many. 348 would be a small block, whereas the 454 is a big block.
Chevrolet never made a 354 big block. So is say the difference is that a 496 is real and 354 is not. there is talk of a 354 small block but they are all from UK and id be inclined to say they are actually talking about a 355.
ON LATER MODELS LOOK AT THE REAR OF THE BLOCK NEAR THE DISTRIBUTOR AND IT WILL HAVE 5.0 OF 5.7 CAST INTO THE BLOCK
Passenger side valve cover
You must mean the head not the block. Yes it can but use teflon tape.
Nothing at all. A long block is the complete engine. A short block is just the engine with no intake, exhaust, or accessories installed.
difference between cross section and block daigram
Usually the block heater is in place of the passenger's side rear freeze plug
sbc stands for small block Chevy engine and cid stands for cubic inches of displacement