Question

some scientists have predicted that buildup of greenhouse gases will contribute to the occurrence of more hurricanes. which is the most likely assumption used in making this prediction?
increased atmospheric carbon dioxide will cause increased ocean - surface temperatures.
saturation of nitrogen in the atmosphere will cause a wide range of ocean - surface temperatures.
any measurable increase in ocean - surface temperatures must be caused by human activities.
acid rainfall will cause a decrease in oceanic surface temperatures.

Explanation:

The idea is that greenhouse - gas build - up contributes to more hurricanes through a causal link. Greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide trap heat leading to increased ocean surface temperatures, which in turn can fuel more hurricanes. Option A correctly links increased atmospheric carbon dioxide (a greenhouse gas) to increased ocean surface temperatures, which is a key factor in hurricane formation. Option B about nitrogen saturation is not related to the greenhouse - gas - hurricane link. Option C wrongly assumes that any increase in ocean surface temperature is due to human activities in a way not relevant to the greenhouse - gas - hurricane connection. Option D about acid rainfall decreasing ocean surface temperatures is not related to the greenhouse - gas - hurricane prediction.

Answer:

A. Increased atmospheric carbon dioxide will cause increased ocean surface temperatures.