Which lake is recognized as the greatest of the Great Lakes due to its size, depth, and coldness?

Lake Superior is recognized as the greatest of the Great Lakes for several key reasons. Firstly, it is the largest freshwater lake by surface area in the world, holding approximately 31,700 square miles, which significantly exceeds the size of the other Great Lakes. Furthermore, it is the deepest of the Great Lakes, with a maximum depth of about 1,332 feet, contributing not only to its volume but also to its cold temperatures, which can reach near freezing in winter and remain quite cool throughout the summer months.

The combination of size, depth, and coldness plays an important role in the lake's ecosystem, influencing the types of fish and wildlife that inhabit the waters, as well as the surrounding environmental conditions. This unique combination makes Lake Superior a significant geological and ecological feature in North America, impacting not only the Great Lakes system but also the climate and natural landscapes of the regions surrounding it.