Final answer:
A large temperature gradient between the lake surface temperature and the lower atmosphere enhances lake effect storm development. Option 3 is correct.
Step-by-step explanation:
To enhance the development of a lake effect storm, the condition that would be most favorable is a large temperature gradient between the lake surface temperature and the lower atmosphere.
When the surface water of a lake is relatively warm and the overlying air is much colder, there is an increase in upward heat and moisture transfers. This establishes conditions conducive to the formation and intensification of lake effect storms.
Moreover, the latent heat of fusion plays a crucial role in modulating the temperatures of the surrounding air. As water begins to freeze and change phase from liquid to solid, it releases latent heat, which can help to prevent air temperatures from significantly falling below 0°C. This thermal influence is particularly evident near large bodies of water during colder months.
Low-pressure systems associated with moist air masses that rise and condense can lead to cloud formations and precipitation, enhancing the weather event.
Furthermore, processes such as heat transfer from the ocean to the atmosphere, and the turnover of water in lakes during spring, which recirculates nutrients and impacts thermal profiles, also play a part in the broader climate dynamics that can affect lake effect storm systems.
Hence, option 3 is correct.