During warmer parts of the day, fish will be found in deeper waters of a lake. Which statement best explains this phenomena with respect to the solubility of a gas?

Question

A) Gases are more soluble at low pressures.
B) Gases are more soluble at high pressures.
C) Gases are more soluble at low temperatures.
D) Gases are more soluble at high temperatures.

Answer 1

The correct statement that best explains why fish are found in deeper waters of a lake during warmer parts of the day relates to the solubility of gases. In general, gases are more soluble at low temperatures. Therefore, the best choice is:

C) Gases are more soluble at low temperatures.

As temperatures rise during the warmer parts of the day, the solubility of oxygen and other gases in the water decreases. This means that fish, which require oxygen to survive, may move to deeper, cooler waters where the oxygen is more soluble and available.