Question

What are the effects of sunlight on the aquatic life inhabiting Crater lake in Oregon?

Answer 1

One of the most dramatic features of Crater Lake is its blue color; in fact early explorers called the lake “Deep Blue.” When sunlight penetrates into the lake, the red through the green portions of the light are preferentially absorbed by water and suspended particles. The blue light, which penetrates more deeply, is eventually scattered by water molecules and returns to the lake surface and our eyes. Concentrations of nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus are low in the lake, which explains why growth of microscopic plants (called algae) is low. The blueness of water is greatest when densities of particles and algae are low.