Why are fall and spring temperatures colder in deeper areas of lakes than they are in the winter?
A)Air temperatures are colder in the fall and spring.
B)There is a lag in time for the cold water to reach these depths.
C)Aquatic animals are more active in the winter.
D)Lake stratification causes colder water to sink in spring and fall.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

During spring and fall, the temperature of the surface water is closer to the temperature of the air, making the lake more likely to mix. As a result, colder water from the surface can sink down to deeper areas, leading to colder temperatures in those areas. This is due to the process of lake stratification, where warmer water sits on top of colder water, creating distinct layers in the lake. In the winter, the surface water cools and eventually freezes, preventing mixing and creating a stable layer that keeps the colder water below from mixing upwards.

Why Are Fall and Spring Temperatures Colder in Deeper Areas