Doesn’t walking on water defy the laws of physics? That’s basically what hikers can do when trekking through the High Tatra Mountains in Slovakia. But they’re not actually walking on water. Instead they’re walking across a lake that’s frozen but clear. A recent video showing this phenomenon has resulted in amazement and disbelief. Regardless of people’s reaction to such videos, it certainly allows them to enjoy the beauty of nature before humans destroy it. It can also have the effect of encouraging eco-tourism in the region. But even if viewers of the video cannot visit High Tatra Mountains person, they can take a virtual trip.
However, numerous scientists have supported the feasibility of the video. That includes ones in various fields, including meteorology. When one looks at the two types of ices, the difference isn’t obvious. However, remember that there’s a difference between what is seen, and what is proven. The basic scientific explanation is that clear ice is approximately 200% stronger than white ice. That’s due to the greater density of the former over the latter. In the Slovakian Mountains, the frozen lake was probably thick enough for humans to walk across because of cold air that was trapped in the entire region since the middle of November.
Interestingly, there’s another factor that explains the phenomenon of people having the ability to “walk on water” across the lake in Slovakia. The impurities are concentrated more in congelation ice than in lake water. It’s important to note that only the water freezes into ice. The salt from the seawater is concentrated in brine. Some of it is contained in pockets located in the new ice. The bottom line is that congelation ice on seawater is not as hard or clear as freshwater ice. Also, the ice might be even more transparent than water found in lakes.
However, there are several amazing natural wonders in the Tatra Mountains. In fact, Pope John Paul II visited there in 1997 while taking a 11-day pilgrimage to his homeland. The mountains form a border between Slovakia and Poland, and where a wide variety of winter sports are played. For example, the Low Tatras range and the High Tatras have become renowned for their natural beauty and affordable skiing. When visiting Slovakia, it’s highly advisable that one visit this region for the views and skiing. It can definitely help to make a trip to the region worthwhile.
When visiting Slovakia, there are tons of sites that you should definitely include on your itinerary. The clear lake is definitely a must-see site, not only for its sheer beauty, but also for the opportunity to “walk on water.” The experience can be even greater by having a comprehension about the scientific cause of the phenomenon. There are several other natural wonders that you should include in your travels in the Tatra Mountains. They can definitely help to make your stay in Slovakia a memorable one. Be sure to do your research before your trip, to learn exactly where you should visit.