A simile can be found when using "like" or "as" between two things. Example: I'm as happy as a clown.
Your question would be a metaphor. Both things are being compared to a science expieriment, probably meaning that they need to have an outcome, but it isn't known for sure if it will be a good or bad outcome.
Things like this can be taken many ways, so if you think something else, I'm sure it would work as well.
Steeper, they are shorter of course than lakes
It allows readers their own vantage point, their own seat high above the chaos and cruelty of the novel. the characters fall further and further into madness, but you never do. You get to see the boys for what they truly are: scared little kids left without adult supervision for far too long..
