While its name, Windermere, might suggest it's a "mere," Windermere does not fit the typical definition of this type of lake primarily because it possesses a noticeable thermocline.
Understanding 'Mere' vs. Lake
The term "mere" traditionally refers to a type of lake that is notably broad in relation to its depth. These bodies of water are typically shallower and often do not exhibit significant thermal stratification. Windermere, though commonly referred to by its full name which includes "mere," deviates from this characteristic.
The Role of the Thermocline
A thermocline is a distinct layer within a large body of water where the temperature changes more rapidly with depth than it does in the layers above or below. The presence of a noticeable thermocline in Windermere means that its water column is stratified, with warmer water near the surface and colder, denser water below, separated by this distinct temperature transition zone. This stratification is a key feature that distinguishes Windermere from the shallower, more uniformly mixed waters typical of a mere.
This characteristic, particularly the significant depth that allows for such thermal layering, sets Windermere apart from what one would traditionally expect from a body of water designated as a "mere." Although it is undoubtedly a lake, its specific limnological properties, such as its thermocline, mean it does not align with the definition implied by its historical name.
For more information on Windermere, you can visit its Wikipedia page.
Key Distinctions
Here's a quick comparison highlighting the difference:
Feature | Typical Mere | Windermere |
---|---|---|
Definition | A lake that is broad in relation to its depth. | A lake that is deeper and exhibits stratification. |
Thermocline | Usually absent or not noticeable. | Possesses a noticeable thermocline. |
Water Mixing | Tends to be well-mixed vertically. | Exhibits thermal stratification. |