The surface water temperature on a large, deep lake is 3° C. A sensitive temperature probe is lowered several m into the lake. What temperature will the probe record?
A) a temperature less than 3° C
B) a temperature equal to 3° C
C) a temperature warmer than 3° C

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In a large, deep lake, the water temperature typically increases with depth below the surface layer, especially if the surface is near freezing. This is due to the density-driven stratification of water, where colder, denser water sinks and slightly warmer water remains below.

The Surface Water Temperature on a Large, Deep Lake Is