Modeling of Thermal and Oxygen Conditions in Lake Kinneret (Israel)

Within the framework of a one-dimensional model taking into account the presence of an upper mixed layer, we compute the seasonal variation of temperature and the concentration of dissolved oxygen in the central part of Lake Kinneret. The temperature conditions of the lake are determined by heat exchange with the atmosphere, and the oxygen conditions depend on gas exchange with the atmosphere and oxygen consumption in sediments as well as on internal sources and sinks. The latter are connected with oxygen supply in the course of photosynthesis and its consumption for the oxidation of labile organic substance in the water thickness. In the period of winter convection from December to February, when the upper mixed layer reaches the bottom, complete aeration of water takes place. The presence of thermal stratification of the lake in the remaining time results in oxygen deficiency under the thermocline.