air+and+water+temperature



**The temperature range of the Mill Creek is 32 - 79 F throughout the year.**

**The summer average for the Mill Creek is 76 F.**

**Fish suffer or die in the Mill Creek when the temperature is above 80 F**

﻿Why is the temperature of the stream usually cooler than the temperature of the air when we took the measurements?

The temperature of the water in the stream is slowly rising during the spring months. The water takes longer to heat than the air because of the difference of the materials. Heat travels quickly in the air, which is made mostly of nitrogen, oxygen, and small amounts of gases such as carbon dioxide. While water is in a liquid form and may take longer to heat up during the spring months.

Another good question is why taking a dip into a pool during the summer "cools" you off after you dive in, even if the temperature of the water is close to the air temperature.

Will more dissolved oxygen fit in colder water or warmer water?

More oxygen will dissolve in a colder stream. As the temperature of the water increases, less gas will be able to dissolve. The solubility of oxygen gas in the water will decrease. Very cold waters are often rich with nutrients because of the high levels of carbon dioxide and oxygen. Cold water currents off the coast of California and Maine help support rich and healthy ecosystems.