Question

question 22 (multiple choice worth 3 points) oss.03the graph below shows the number of sunspots observed between 1750 and 2000.
source: http://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/features/variablesun
based on the graph, which of these statements is most likely correct about the periods 1800 to 1850 and 1900 to 1950?
there was decrease in global temperatures.
there was increase in global temperatures.
there was no significant change in solar activity.
there was no significant change in global climate.

Explanation:

1. Analyze the graph: The graph shows sunspot numbers. Sunspots are related to solar activity, and solar activity can influence global climate (more sunspots often correlate with warmer global temperatures, fewer with cooler).
2. For 1800 - 1850: Sunspot numbers increase from a low around 1800. For 1900 - 1950: Sunspot numbers also show an upward trend (peaking around 1950).
3. Evaluate options:

• "There was decrease in global temperatures": If sunspots increase, solar activity increases, so global temperatures are more likely to increase, not decrease. Eliminate.
• "There was increase in global temperatures": As sunspot numbers (solar activity) increase in both periods, more solar radiation reaches Earth, leading to warmer temperatures. This is consistent.
• "There was no significant change in solar activity": The graph shows clear changes (increases) in sunspot numbers, so solar activity changed. Eliminate.
• "There was no significant change in global climate": Since solar activity changed (sunspots increased), and solar activity affects climate, climate is likely to change. Eliminate.

Answer:

B. There was increase in global temperatures (assuming the option labels are A, B, C, D with B being "There was increase in global temperatures" as per typical multiple - choice formatting here)