Steady-state thermal gradient in the sediments of a meromictic lake

Steady-state thermal conditions have been found in the sediments of a small meromictic lake. The temperature gradient at the center of the lake is constant and has a value of 0.20°C/m during the year. Total heat flow through these sediments is calculated to be 2.8 × 10−6 cal/cm² sec. Approximately half of this flux is attributed to the temperature contrasts between the rim and the central portion of the lake's basin.