Introduction to Lake Superior
Lake Superior is the largest of the five Great Lakes of North America and the world’s largest freshwater lake by surface area. It is located along the border of Canada and the United States, with the majority of its shoreline belonging to the latter. It has been a significant location for trade, transportation, and recreation for centuries.
Geographical location of the lake
Lake Superior is situated in the northern region of North America, bordered by Ontario and Minnesota to the north and Wisconsin and Michigan to the south. It is the farthest north and west of the Great Lakes and spans a total area of about 31,700 square miles. It is approximately 350 miles long and 160 miles wide and has a maximum depth of 1,332 feet.
The size and depth of Lake Superior
The size and depth of Lake Superior make it a unique and important natural resource. It contains almost 10% of the world’s fresh surface water, with a volume of approximately 2,900 cubic miles. It is also the coldest and deepest of the Great Lakes, with a mean temperature of 40°F and a maximum depth of 1,332 feet.
Understanding total area of a body of water
The total area of a body of water is measured by calculating the surface area of the water body. This includes the area of the shoreline and all the bays and islands within the lake. The total area of a lake is an important measure of its ecological and economic significance.
The measurement of Lake Superior’s area
The total surface area of Lake Superior is approximately 31,700 square miles. This measurement includes the lake’s main body and all its bays and islands. The lake’s surface area has been calculated using various methods, including satellite imagery, bathymetric charts, and on-site measurements.
Factors affecting the lake’s area
The size of Lake Superior can be affected by various factors, including erosion, sedimentation, water level fluctuations, and climate change. The size of the lake has been known to fluctuate over time due to changes in weather patterns and human activities such as damming and dredging.
Historical changes to the lake’s area
Historically, the size of Lake Superior has undergone several changes, including periods of low water levels during the 1920s and 1930s and high water levels in the 1950s and 1980s. These changes have had significant impacts on the lake’s ecology, water quality, and economic activities.
Current total area of Lake Superior
As of 2021, the total area of Lake Superior is approximately 31,700 square miles. This measurement has remained relatively stable over the past few decades, with only minor fluctuations due to natural and human factors.
Comparison to other Great Lakes
Lake Superior is the largest of the five Great Lakes, with a surface area of 31,700 square miles. It is followed by Lake Huron, which has a surface area of 23,000 square miles. Lake Michigan, which is connected to Lake Huron, has a surface area of 22,300 square miles. Lake Erie is the fourth-largest Great Lake, with a surface area of 9,910 square miles, and Lake Ontario is the smallest of the five, with a surface area of 7,340 square miles.
Importance of Lake Superior’s area
The area of Lake Superior is an essential measure of its ecological, economic, and cultural significance. The lake and its surrounding region support various industries, including shipping, fishing, tourism, and recreation. It is also a vital source of freshwater for millions of people and home to many unique species of plants and animals.
Conclusion on Lake Superior’s area
In conclusion, the total area covered by Lake Superior is approximately 31,700 square miles. This measurement is a critical indicator of the lake’s significance and has been calculated using various methods over time. The size of the lake has undergone historical changes and is affected by several factors, including human activities and climate change. Understanding the lake’s area is essential for its preservation and management and for ensuring its continued ecological, economic, and cultural importance.
References for further reading
- Great Lakes Information Network. (2021). Lake Superior. https://www.great-lakes.net/lakes/superior.html
- U.S. Geological Survey. (2021). The Great Lakes.
- National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. (2021). Great Lakes Surface Area.
