Why do some lakes freeze completely while others stay partly open all winter?
Quick Answer
Deep lakes store more heat and may not cool enough to freeze all the way through. Flowing water, salinity, and wind also help keep some lakes open.
The Full Story
A lake’s depth, size, salinity, and water movement all affect whether it freezes solid. Deep lakes can hold enough summer heat to keep deeper water above freezing, while the surface freezes first and forms an insulating ice layer. Saltier lakes freeze at lower temperatures than fresh ones, and currents or inflow from rivers can keep water moving and prevent complete ice cover. Wind can also break thin ice or pile it up against shorelines rather than letting a smooth sheet form.
Key Facts
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Suggested video title for this topic:
"Why do some lakes become ice rinks and others stay half-open?"
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