Question

As surface water in a lake cools from 4 °C to 0 °C, the water expands and becomes less dense. Why is this change in the water beneficial to the organisms living in the lake? As the water cools to freezing, spaces form between water molecules, providing microhabitats for small organisms. Frozen surface water insulates the water below it, maintaining a habitat where organisms can overwinter. Cooler water is less viscous than warmer water, making it easier for organisms to move through the water. Less dense water holds more dissolved compounds, keeping water from freezing so organisms survive winter.

Answer 1

Answer:

As the water cools to freezing, spaces form between water molecules, providing microhabitats for small organisms.

Explanation:

This change in the water is beneficial to the organisms living in the lake because the water which freezes formed spaces between water molecules, that providing microhabitats for small organisms. The cold temperature causes formation of ice crystals on the surface of water which work as an insulator whereas the lower part of the water remain warm and the organisms can survive in that environment.