Why does water flow direction reverse between interconnected freshwater lakes or lochs? Understanding current changes in canals linking lakes.

Context

The question pertains to a specific scenario observed in the Scottish lowlands, where Barr Loch and Castle Semple Loch are connected by a small channel. The direction of water flow in this channel reversed within a few days. The user has ruled out tidal influence due to the lack of connection to the sea and the small size of the lochs. Uniform rainfall across both lochs further complicates the understanding of this phenomenon.

Simple Answer

  • Wind pushes water, raising the level in one loch.
  • More water in one loch means it flows to the other.
  • Wind direction changes, reversing the water level difference.
  • Rain runoff enters the lochs unevenly or over different periods.
  • Evaporation rates can vary slightly creating water imbalance.

Detailed Answer

The most plausible explanation for the reversing water flow between Barr Loch and Castle Semple Loch is wind-driven water displacement. Even though both lochs are not very large, wind action can have a significant impact on water levels. If a prevailing wind consistently blows in one direction, it can push water towards one end of a loch, effectively raising the water level at that end and lowering it at the opposite end. This creates a hydraulic head, a difference in water levels, between the two lochs. The water then flows through the connecting channel from the loch with the higher water level to the loch with the lower water level. A change in wind direction would then reverse this process. Wind direction shift is very common in scottish lowlands. Wind blowing against the normal water flow will result in reversing the natural flow of the water.

Another factor contributing to the water flow direction could be variations in rainfall runoff. Although the user mentions both lochs receiving similar amounts of rain, it is possible that the surrounding terrain and drainage patterns cause uneven runoff into each loch. For instance, one loch might have a larger catchment area or more efficient drainage channels, leading to a faster increase in water level after a rainfall event. This temporary imbalance in water levels would then drive water flow through the connecting channel. Once the runoff subsides and water levels equalize, the flow might cease or even reverse if the other loch experiences a similar runoff event later. The rainfall event can be a reason to cause a water flow reversal between the lakes. It is important to consider a complex water model based on the region.

Evaporation rates, although usually subtle, might also play a role in the long run. If one loch is more exposed to sunlight or has a greater surface area, it might experience a higher rate of evaporation compared to the other loch. Over time, this difference in evaporation rates can lead to a gradual decrease in the water level of the more exposed loch, creating a slight hydraulic gradient. This gradient, combined with wind-driven effects and rainfall runoff variations, could contribute to the observed water flow direction. It is important to note that the effects of evaporation alone will be minimal however it is important to keep in mind any extreme cases. The rainfall amount is dependent on the season. This causes a drastic change in water levels.

The specific topography of the canal connecting the two lochs can also play a role in water flow dynamics. The channel's depth, width, and alignment can influence the ease with which water flows in either direction. A narrow or shallow channel might create more resistance to flow, making it more susceptible to minor changes in water level differences. Furthermore, the presence of any obstructions or constrictions within the channel could further impede flow and make it more sensitive to fluctuations in water levels driven by wind or runoff. All of these factors can lead to some unexpected direction reversals of the water. It is important to take into account all these minor and major factors when predicting the water flow between the lochs.

In conclusion, the reversing water flow between Barr Loch and Castle Semple Loch is likely a complex interplay of several factors. Wind-driven water displacement is the most probable driver, creating temporary hydraulic gradients between the lochs. Variations in rainfall runoff and evaporation rates, as well as the topography of the connecting channel, can further contribute to the observed phenomenon. Without precise measurements of water levels, wind speed and direction, and runoff rates, it is difficult to pinpoint the exact cause of each flow reversal, but considering all these factors provides a comprehensive understanding of the potential dynamics at play. One should be aware of all the possible causes behind the flow reversals to come up with a precise conclusion.

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