Which factor contributes to the strength of hurricanes?
A- warmer ocean temp
B- cooler ocean temp
C- risimg sea levels
D- increasing levels of pesticides and other pollutants***
The factor that contributes to the strength of hurricanes is warmer ocean temperatures. To understand why this is the case, we need some background knowledge about the formation of hurricanes.
Hurricanes form over tropical or subtropical ocean waters where the sea surface temperature is at least 26.5 degrees Celsius (80 degrees Fahrenheit). Warm ocean waters provide the necessary energy for hurricanes to develop and intensify. As the warm air rises from the ocean surface, it creates a low-pressure area, causing air to rush in from surrounding areas. This air starts to spin due to the Earth's rotation, forming the core of the hurricane.
The warm ocean surface also provides moisture for the hurricane, which is converted into powerful thunderstorms. This release of latent heat from the condensation of water vapor further fuels the hurricane, increasing its strength.
Now, let's evaluate the options you provided to determine which one is correct:
A- Warmer ocean temperature: This is the correct answer because warm ocean temperatures provide the energy needed for the formation and strengthening of hurricanes.
B- Cooler ocean temperature: Cooler ocean temperatures do not provide sufficient energy for hurricanes to form or intensify. Instead, cooler waters tend to weaken hurricanes.
C- Rising sea levels: While rising sea levels can lead to increased flooding and storm surge during hurricanes, they do not directly contribute to the strength of hurricanes themselves.
D- Increasing levels of pesticides and other pollutants: Pesticides and other pollutants do not contribute to the strength of hurricanes. They may have other environmental impacts but are not directly related to hurricane formation or intensity.
Therefore, after evaluating the options, the correct answer is A- warmer ocean temperatures.