Why does hot water visually separate from cold?

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Hot water visually separates from cold water due to differences in density and refractive index. The rising hot water creates a swirling effect, similar to the shimmer seen above hot ground in the desert. This phenomenon occurs because the hotter water has a lower density, affecting how light passes through it. The discussion also connects this effect to the shimmering air above heated surfaces. Understanding these principles can clarify why hot and cold water appear distinct in various environments.
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Hey guys, I'm new to these forums so I'm hoping i have posted this question in the appropriate thread.

Recently, i noticed the electric heater in my fish tank had a volume of water around it all times which was rising, it made sense to me that the water surrounding the heater would be rising due to density, but the fact that it was visually separated to the colder water puzzled me. It was like the hot water appeared like alcohol, rising with swirls.

I asked my friend what he thought it could possibly be, and he said it appeared to have the same characteristics as hot ground does in the desert, shimmering above the surface as the hotter medium rises. But i was not convinced, i was thinking more along the lines that perhaps the hotter water had a different refractive index due to its decreased density, and in relation to the light shining upon it consequently appeared isolated.

I'm sure there is many people on here that have a greater idea than me as to why this happens, it would be great if you could help me out. Thanks.
 
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billyboy223 said:
the hotter water had a different refractive index due to its decreased density
Pretty much :smile:
 
mmmm, would this alternate refractive index also be the reason why the airspace immidiately above hot ground sometimes shimmers? Or is my friends opinion a different concept altogether?
 

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