Question

Under the tab "Weather and Climate," choose "U.S. and Global Temperature," and then click on Figure 3, "Rate of Temperature Change in the United States, 1901-2014" at the bottom of the page. How does the data in the graph relate to the theme of models, evidence, and explanations?

Answer 1

The graph "Rate of Temperature Change in the United States, 1901-2014" shows the average temperature change in the contiguous United States from 1901 to 2014, with each bar representing a decade of data. The data clearly indicates that temperatures have been increasing over the past century. This information supports the models and explanations put forth by climate scientists that the Earth's temperature is rising due to human activities such as burning fossil fuels and deforestation. The evidence provided by the graph also helps to validate the models used to predict future climate change and inform policy decisions aimed at mitigating its effects. Overall, the graph is a strong example of how data and evidence can be used to support and refine scientific models and explanations.