The Next Few Questions Refer to the Following Description and Table

question 63

Multiple Choice

The next few questions refer to the following description and Table 25.1.
Diatoms are encased in Petri-platelike cases (valves) made of translucent hydrated silica whose thickness can be varied. The material used to store excess calories can also be varied. At certain times, diatoms store excess calories in the form of the liquid polysaccharide, laminarin, and at other times as oil. Table 25.1 shows data concerning the density (specific gravity) of various components of diatoms, and of their environment.
Table 25.1 Specific Gravities of Materials Relevant to Diatoms
-Water's density and, consequently, its buoyancy decrease at warmer temperatures. Based on this consideration and using data from Table 25.1, at which time of year should one expect diatoms to be storing excess calories mostly as oil?

• A) mid-winter
• B) early spring
• C) late summer
• D) late fall