Why is the bottom of a waterfall warmer?
Why is the bottom of a waterfall warmer? Water is slightly warmer at the bottom of a waterfall than at the top because the gravitational potential energy is converted first to kinetic energy of the falling water, and finally to heat energy as it comes to rest at the bottom.
Does the earth get hotter the deeper you go?
The Earth gets hotter as one travels towards the core, known as the geothermal gradient. The geothermal gradient is the amount that the Earth's temperature increases with depth. It indicates heat ?owing from the Earth's warm interior to its surface.
Why are waterfalls so cool?
It's a reminder of the beauty that our world can offer and feeds our imaginations. Even the sound of a waterfall is soothing. There's something about water, mountains, and trees that infuses our souls with peace.
Why do waterfalls not freeze?
Unlike a lake or pond, a waterfall and its source -- rivers and streams -- are constantly moving and mixing the water. But if the temperature stays below freezing for an extended period of time, the water will supercool. That means it's below 32 degrees but still liquid. During that process, frazil ice forms.
What happens at the bottom of a waterfall?
The resulting erosion at the base of a waterfall can be very dramatic, and cause the waterfall to recede. The area behind the waterfall is worn away, creating a hollow, cave-like structure called a rock shelter. Eventually, the rocky ledge (called the outcropping) may tumble down, sending boulders into the stream ...