A scientist hypothesizes that dust blown into the atmosphere by sandstorms could reduce the number of hurricanes that form. How might the scientist support this hypothesis using a computer model?

Question

A. By determining whether atmospheric dust could block enough sunlight to decrease ocean temperatures
B. By determining whether the dust particles are dark enough to absorb sunlight to increase air temperatures
C. By determining whether atmospheric dust is needed for raindrops to form
D. By determining whether dust particles can form rain clouds in the air above the ocean

Answer 1

To support the hypothesis that dust blown into the atmosphere by sandstorms could reduce the number of hurricanes that form, the scientist could use a computer model to examine how this dust affects atmospheric and oceanic conditions that influence hurricane formation. The best option for supporting this hypothesis would be:

A. By determining whether atmospheric dust could block enough sunlight to decrease ocean temperatures.

This approach is logical because a decrease in ocean temperatures could lead to less evaporation and, consequently, provide less energy for hurricanes, which thrive on warm ocean waters. Therefore, measuring the potential cooling effect of dust on ocean temperatures would directly relate to the scientist's hypothesis about the influence of atmospheric dust on hurricane formation.