The two great lakes.
Lake Superior and Lake Huron are two of the five Great Lakes of North America. They are located in the northern part of the continent, forming a natural border between Canada and the United States. These two lakes are not only among the largest bodies of freshwater in the world, but they also have a significant impact on the region’s climate, economy, and ecology. Understanding their features, including their elevation, is essential to appreciate their importance and complexity.
The largest lake in the world.
Lake Superior is the largest of the Great Lakes and the largest freshwater lake in the world by surface area. It spans over 31,700 square miles and has a shoreline of almost 2,800 miles. The lake is located primarily in the United States, with the state of Michigan being the largest on its southern shore. Lake Superior is also the deepest of the Great Lakes, with an average depth of 483 feet and a maximum depth of 1,333 feet.
Elevation and depth of Lake Superior.
The elevation of Lake Superior is 600 feet above sea level. This measurement refers to its height relative to a horizontal plane at sea level. The lake’s depth and elevation are closely related, as the lake’s surface rises and falls with changes in water levels. The depth of the lake varies from shallow areas near the shore to the deeper basin, where the waters reach their maximum depth. The lake’s water volume is estimated to be around 2,900 cubic miles, making it the third-largest freshwater lake in the world by volume.
Elevation and depth of Lake Huron.
Lake Huron is the second-largest of the Great Lakes, covering more than 23,000 square miles, with a shoreline of over 3,800 miles. It is also one of the deepest lakes in the world, with an average depth of 195 feet and a maximum depth of 748 feet. The lake is located on the border between Canada and the United States, with the province of Ontario and the state of Michigan sharing its shoreline.
How are lake elevations measured?
Lake elevations are typically measured using a reference point or datum, which is a fixed location with a known elevation. For the Great Lakes, the reference point is the International Great Lakes Datum, which is based on the North American Vertical Datum of 1988. This datum provides a standard elevation for the lakes and their surrounding areas, allowing for accurate measurements of changes in water levels over time.
What is the water level of each lake?
The water levels of the Great Lakes are constantly changing due to a variety of factors, including precipitation, evaporation, inflows, and outflows. As of 2021, the water level of Lake Superior was around 602.4 feet above sea level, while the water level of Lake Huron was about 581.5 feet above sea level. These levels are subject to change and can vary significantly over time.
Is there a difference in elevation?
There is a difference in elevation between Lake Superior and Lake Huron, with Lake Superior being higher in elevation. The difference in elevation is relatively small, around 21 feet, but it is enough to create a natural barrier between the two lakes. This barrier, known as the St. Marys River, is the only outlet for Lake Superior, and it feeds into Lake Huron via a series of rapids and waterfalls.
The impact of the lakes on the region.
The Great Lakes region is home to millions of people and has a significant impact on the local economy, environment, and culture. The lakes provide drinking water, hydroelectric power, shipping lanes, and recreational opportunities, among other benefits. Their unique ecosystems support a wide range of plant and animal species, and they play a critical role in regulating the region’s climate and weather patterns.
Why does the elevation difference matter?
The elevation difference between Lake Superior and Lake Huron has several implications for the region. It affects the flow of water between the lakes, which can impact water quality, fish populations, and other aquatic life. It also affects the shipping industry, as vessels must navigate the St. Marys River and other channels to transport goods between the lakes. Understanding the elevation difference is essential for managing these resources and ensuring their long-term sustainability.
Possible causes of elevation differences.
The elevation difference between Lake Superior and Lake Huron is due to a variety of factors, including differences in topography, geology, and glacial history. During the last ice age, glaciers covered much of the region, carving out the landscape and creating natural barriers and channels for water to flow. These processes, along with other natural and human-made factors, have contributed to the complex and dynamic nature of the Great Lakes.
Conclusion: Understanding the complex lakes.
Lake Superior and Lake Huron are two of the world’s largest and most complex bodies of freshwater. Their elevation, depth, and other features have significant implications for the region’s environment, economy, and society. By studying these lakes, researchers and policymakers can better understand the challenges and opportunities posed by these vital resources.
References and further reading.
- Great Lakes Information Network. (2021). About the Great Lakes. https://www.great-lakes.net/about/intro.html
- National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. (2021). International Great Lakes Datum. https://tidesandcurrents.noaa.gov/datums.html?id=ID_8754227
- United States Geological Survey. (2021). Water Levels of the Great Lakes.
