Climate models predict that, as the world continues to warm, sea-surface temperatures in the tropics will rise. This may in turn ____.
A) increase global circulation
B) increase the amount of time between hurricane formations
C) increase the strength of hurricanes
D) decrease the strength of hurricanes

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Warmer sea-surface temperatures are a major factor in increasing the intensity of hurricanes. So, as sea-surface temperatures rise in the tropics, the strength of hurricanes is expected to increase. A and B are not correct because they do not directly relate to sea-surface temperatures in the tropics. D is also incorrect because models predict that hurricane strength will increase, not decrease, under these conditions.

Climate Models Predict That, as the World Continues to Warm