Where Does the Water From Niagara Falls Go?
Understanding the Water Cycle at Niagara Falls
When discussing a popular tourist attraction as iconic as Niagara Falls, it's essential to understand the complex natural processes that govern its water flow. Often, the question arises: where does the water from Niagara Falls go? Many assume that the water from Lake Erie, which powers the falls, eventually returns to Lake Erie. However, the reality is quite different. This article aims to clear any misconceptions and provide a detailed explanation of the water cycle at Niagara Falls.
The Water Cycle at Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls, located on the Niagara River between Ontario, Canada, and New York, USA, is part of a continuous natural water cycle. The water cycle is a dynamic process that moves water around the planet. At Niagara Falls, this cycle is particularly visible and intriguing.
The journey of water from Lake Erie to the falls and beyond is a fascinating example of the water cycle in action. Let's break down the process step-by-step:
The Journey Begins at Lake Erie
Lake Erie, one of the five Great Lakes of North America, begins the journey. Its water level fluctuates naturally throughout the year due to precipitation, evaporation, and ice cover. During times of high water levels, more water rushes into the Niagara River, the natural channel that funnels water from Lake Erie to the falls.
Flow Over the Niagara Falls
As water flows over the Niagara Falls, it travels approximately 167 feet (51 meters) down. This powerful descent can generate up to 60,000 cubic feet of water per second. The force of the water breakwater into a mist, which is a beautiful sight and a significant part of the falls' allure.
Destination: Lake Ontario
A significant portion of the water from Lake Erie does not simply return to the lake from which it came. Instead, it continues its journey to the next leg of its trip: Lake Ontario. The total flow rate over Niagara Falls is approximately 80,000 cubic feet of water per second. Of this:
About 75,000 cubic feet per second (or 85 percent) of the water is directed towards Lake Ontario. The remaining 5,000 cubic feet per second (or 15 percent) is used for hydroelectric power generation at hydroelectric plants on both sides of the falls.Continuing Down the St. Lawrence River
Once the water reaches Lake Ontario, it continues along the St. Lawrence River, eventually making its way to the Atlantic Ocean. The St. Lawrence River is over 900 miles (1,400 kilometers) long and an integral part of a network of waterways that connects the Great Lakes to the Atlantic Ocean. This journey takes the water from the falls through various ecosystems, contributing to the biodiversity and supporting diverse species of fish and wildlife along the way.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the water that flows over Niagara Falls does not go back to Lake Erie. Instead, it continues along the Niagara River to Lake Ontario and then down the St. Lawrence River to the Atlantic Ocean. This complex journey exemplifies the intricate water cycle at work and the importance of understanding natural processes in our environment. The next time you visit or read about Niagara Falls, you can appreciate the natural wonder and the technical details behind its water flow.