What is Temperature?

Water temperature expresses how hot or cold the water is. Technically, heat is an indicator of the kinetic energy of water, or energy of motion. Increasing temperature indicates increasing energy, or molecular motion, of water.

Why is Temperature Important?

Water temperature affects the growth and reproduction of living organisms. Many animals use temperature as a signal for when to reproduce, and when to migrate. Generally, animals and plants grow faster at warmer temperatures, although all organisms have an upper temperature limit.

Water temperature has a huge impact on water density. Water is most dense at 4 degrees Celcius, or 39 degrees Fahrenheit. Water at higher or lower temperatures will float on top of water that is 4 degrees C. This is why ice floats, and why warmer water floats on colder water. Differences in water temperature and density cause stratification.

How is Temperature measured? Temperature Sensor Technology Temperature Science Lesson