Which factor contributes to the strength of hurricanes?
A- warmer ocean temp
B- cooler ocean temp
C- rising sea levels
D- increasing levels of pesticides and other pollutants****
A. Warmer Ocean Temperatures
The correct answer is A - warmer ocean temperature.
To understand why warmer ocean temperatures contribute to the strength of hurricanes, we need to look at the process by which hurricanes form and intensify. Hurricanes are fueled by warm ocean waters, as they act as an energy source for the storms.
Here's how you can reason through to find the answer:
1. Recall that hurricanes are tropical cyclones characterized by a low-pressure center and strong winds.
2. Think about what fuels the formation and intensification of hurricanes. The primary source of energy for hurricanes is the warm water from the ocean's surface.
3. Consider the role of warmer ocean temperatures in this process. Warmer water holds more heat energy, and when hurricanes pass over such areas, they absorb this energy, which helps the storms to grow and intensify.
4. Analyze the other options:
- B: Cooler ocean temperatures would not provide the same amount of energy for hurricane development and intensification, making it an unlikely factor.
- C: Rising sea levels may worsen the impacts of hurricanes, but they do not directly contribute to the strength of hurricanes themselves.
- D: Increasing levels of pesticides and other pollutants do not affect the formation or intensity of hurricanes.
Therefore, the correct answer is A.