Final answer:
To find the average low temperature in January, which is 16.1°C cooler than in November, Otto should use the equation T(January) = T(November) - 16.1.
Step-by-step explanation:
The student is trying to find the average low temperature in January, knowing it is 16.1°C cooler than the average low temperature in November. The correct equation to represent this situation is T(January) = T(November) - 16.1 because if January is cooler than November by a certain number of degrees, we subtract that number from November's temperature to find January's. By subtracting 16.1°C from the November temperature, Otto can determine the average low temperature in January. This simple mathematical relationship allows him to account for the specified temperature difference between the two months, aiding in temperature comparison and analysis.