The Great Lakes of North America
The Great Lakes are a series of interconnected freshwater lakes located in North America. They consist of five main lakes: Superior, Michigan, Huron, Erie, and Ontario. These lakes are the largest freshwater system in the world, containing 21% of the world’s surface freshwater by volume.
Ascending Order: Listing the Smallest Great Lake
The smallest of the Great Lakes is Lake Ontario. It has a surface area of 7,340 square miles and a volume of 393 cubic miles. Despite being the smallest, it is still larger than some countries in the world. Lake Ontario is located at the eastern end of the Great Lakes and is bordered by the US states of New York and Pennsylvania and the Canadian province of Ontario.
Lake Erie: The Fourth Largest Great Lake
Lake Erie is the fourth largest of the Great Lakes and has a surface area of 9,910 square miles and a volume of 116 cubic miles. It is the shallowest of all the Great Lakes, with an average depth of only 62 feet. Lake Erie is located between the US states of Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, and Michigan, as well as the Canadian province of Ontario.
Lake Ontario: Ranking Third in Great Lake Size
Lake Ontario is the third largest of the Great Lakes, with a surface area of 7,340 square miles and a volume of 393 cubic miles. It is the easternmost of the Great Lakes and is bordered by the US states of New York and Pennsylvania and the Canadian province of Ontario. Lake Ontario is also the only Great Lake that does not border Michigan.
Lake Michigan: The Second Largest Great Lake
Lake Michigan is the second largest of the Great Lakes and has a surface area of 22,400 square miles and a volume of 4,918 cubic miles. It is the only Great Lake that is entirely located within the United States and is bordered by Michigan, Wisconsin, Illinois, and Indiana.
Superior in Size: The Largest Great Lake
Lake Superior is the largest of the Great Lakes and has a surface area of 31,700 square miles and a volume of 2,900 cubic miles. It is the deepest and coldest of all the Great Lakes, with an average depth of 483 feet. Lake Superior is located on the border between the United States and Canada and is bordered by Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, and Ontario.
The Great Lakes’ Geography and Formation
The Great Lakes were formed by a combination of glacial activity and tectonic movements. During the last ice age, glaciers carved out deep basins in the earth’s surface, which filled with water as the glaciers retreated. The lakes are all connected by various channels and rivers, which allow for the exchange of water between the lakes.
The Great Lakes’ Importance to the Economy
The Great Lakes are a vital economic resource for both the United States and Canada. They are used for shipping goods such as iron ore, coal, and grain, and support industries such as fishing and tourism. The lakes also provide drinking water to millions of people in both countries.
Environmental Threats to the Great Lakes
The Great Lakes face numerous environmental threats, including pollution, invasive species, and climate change. Pollution from industrial and agricultural activities has led to water quality issues in the lakes, while invasive species such as the Asian carp have disrupted the ecosystem. Climate change is also affecting the lakes, with increased temperatures and changes in water levels.
The Great Lakes’ Role in Tourism and Recreation
The Great Lakes offer a variety of recreational opportunities, including swimming, boating, and fishing. The lakes also support a thriving tourism industry, with millions of people visiting each year to enjoy the natural beauty and cultural attractions of the region.
Conclusion: Exploring the Great Lakes
The Great Lakes are a unique and valuable resource that play an important role in both the economy and the environment. While they face challenges, including environmental threats, they continue to provide opportunities for recreation and enjoyment. Whether you are a resident of the region or a visitor, the Great Lakes offer endless possibilities for exploration and discovery.
References: Sources for Great Lake Facts
- Great Lakes Information Network: https://www.great-lakes.net/
- NOAA Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory: https://www.glerl.noaa.gov/
- Michigan Sea Grant: https://www.miseagrant.umich.edu/