Water boils at 212°F (which corresponds to 100°C) and freezes at 32°F (which corresponds to 0°C). If on a particular day the temperature is 35°C, what is the equivalent temperature in degrees Fahrenheit?

Introduction / Context: This problem tests conversion between Celsius and Fahrenheit temperature scales. Many science and aptitude exams use this conversion because it requires understanding a linear relationship between the two scales. We are given reference points for boiling and freezing water and must convert a specific Celsius temperature to Fahrenheit using the standard formula.

Given Data / Assumptions: - Water freezes at 0°C = 32°F. - Water boils at 100°C = 212°F. - Required temperature: 35°C. - We must find the corresponding Fahrenheit temperature. - Standard linear conversion between Celsius and Fahrenheit is assumed.

Concept / Approach: The standard formula to convert Celsius to Fahrenheit is F = (9/5) * C + 32. This arises from aligning the two scales at the freezing point and matching their increments. To find the Fahrenheit value for 35°C, we substitute C = 35 into this formula and compute the result carefully, paying attention to multiplication and addition.

Step-by-Step Solution: Use the conversion formula: F = (9/5) * C + 32. Here, C = 35. Compute (9/5) * 35. First 35 ÷ 5 = 7. Then 9 * 7 = 63, so (9/5) * 35 = 63. Now add 32: F = 63 + 32. 63 + 32 = 95. Therefore, 35°C corresponds to 95°F.

Verification / Alternative check: We know that 30°C is approximately 86°F because F = (9/5)*30 + 32 = 54 + 32 = 86. A 5°C increase corresponds to an increase of (9/5)*5 = 9°F. Therefore, 35°C should be roughly 86 + 9 = 95°F, matching our exact calculation. This quick mental check confirms the correctness of the result.

Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option 85°F is roughly the value for around 29°C, not 35°C. Option 96°F corresponds to a slightly higher Celsius temperature than 35°C, around 35.6°C, and is not exact. Option 97°F is even higher and does not match the standard conversion for 35°C.

Common Pitfalls: Common mistakes include using an incorrect formula such as F = (5/9)*C + 32 or forgetting to add 32 after multiplication. Some candidates also confuse 9/5 with 5/9, leading to incorrect results. Remember that Fahrenheit degrees are smaller than Celsius degrees between the same endpoints, so the factor should be greater than 1, specifically 9/5.

Final Answer: The equivalent temperature for 35°C in Fahrenheit is 95°F.