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1. Cooling: As the ambient temperature decreases, surface water bodies such as lakes, rivers, and ponds begin to cool down. The water molecules slow down their movement and become more densely packed, causing the water to become denser.
2. Stratification: As the surface water cools, it becomes denser and sinks. This process creates a layered effect in the water body, with the colder, denser water sinking to the bottom and the warmer, less dense water remaining near the surface. This phenomenon is called stratification.
3. Turnover: In deeper water bodies, a process called turnover occurs when the surface water becomes cooler and denser than the water at the bottom. This density difference causes the water column to become unstable, leading to a complete mixing of the water. During turnover, nutrients from the bottom are brought to the surface, which can stimulate algae growth and affect water quality.
4. Freezing: As the temperature continues to drop, the surface water may reach freezing point and begin to form ice. This process starts at the edges of the water body and gradually spreads towards the center. In shallower areas, the entire water body may freeze, while deeper lakes and rivers may only develop a layer of ice on the surface.
5. Reduced evaporation: Colder temperatures also lead to reduced evaporation from the surface of the water. This results in lower water levels in lakes and rivers during the fall and winter months.
6. Changes in aquatic life: The cooling of water temperatures affects aquatic life. Some species, such as certain types of fish and insects, may migrate to deeper, warmer areas of the water body to avoid the cold. Others may enter a state of dormancy or reduce their activity levels as the water temperature decreases.
These changes in surface water due to cooling fall temperatures can impact water quality, aquatic ecosystems, and human activities such as fishing, boating, and water sports.