To find the change in temperature from 9 a.m. to noon, we can set up the following equation:
\[ \text{Change in temperature} = \text{Temperature at noon} - \text{Temperature at 9 a.m.} \]
Substituting the temperatures into the equation:
\[ \text{Change in temperature} = (-1.6) - (-5.8) \]
Now, when we subtract a negative number, it is the same as adding its positive counterpart:
\[ \text{Change in temperature} = -1.6 + 5.8 \]
Next, we perform the addition:
\[ -1.6 + 5.8 = 4.2 \]
Thus, the change in temperature is:
\[ \text{Change in temperature} = 4.2 \text{ degrees Celsius} \]
Explanation:
The result of 4.2 degrees Celsius indicates that the temperature increased by 4.2 degrees Celsius from 9 a.m. to noon. Initially, the temperature was -5.8 degrees Celsius, which is quite cold. By noon, the temperature had risen to -1.6 degrees Celsius. This means the air became warmer over the three-hour period.