I have a small lake near my house. On one occasion, a perfectly calm sunny day when the temperature was near freezing, I noticed the surface of the lake shimmering and vibrating. What effect was taking place on the water? Was it beginning to freeze? What is the scientific term for that effect?

Question

anonymous · Answer

Lets think about what could be happening.  We don't know if the temp of the water do we was it warmer than the air or colder.  Was the air near the surface being heated causing small rising  convection currents that could be disturbing the water? or was warmer air  being cooled by the cooler water producing sinking air currents?  Could a small layer of water vapor or cool air close to the surface cause a mirage type effect as seen on hot road during the summer??  Any other ideas??