Use this tool to get an idea for how turbidity affects light penetration. This tool simulates a PAR sensor. A PAR sensor measures the level of photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) that is present. PAR is the intensity of light that is available for photosynthesis.

The euphotic zone represents the surface portion of the water column that receives enough light to support photosynthesis. For this exercise, the euphotic zone is assumed to extend down to the depth at which 1% of the surface light intensity remains. As you observe the data plots for the different turbidity levels, note the difference in the extent of the euphotic zone in meters.