Question

A scientist records the water temperature and the air temperature in Antarctica. The water is -2°C. The air is 9°C colder than the water. What is the temperature of the air?

a) -11°C
b) 7°C
c) -2°C
d) 11°C

Answer 1

To determine the air temperature in Antarctica, subtract 9°C from the water temperature of -2°C. The result is -11°C, so the air temperature is -11°C (option a).

Step-by-step explanation:

To find the temperature of the air in Antarctica, we have to subtract 9°C from the water temperature, which is given as -2°C. Here's a step-by-step solution:

Write down the water temperature: -2°C.

Subtract the difference in temperature between the air and water, which is 9°C, from the water temperature: -2°C - 9°C.

Perform the subtraction: -2 - 9 = -11.

The temperature of the air is therefore -11°C.

The correct answer to the question is a) -11°C.