Correct Option
The correct option is 20° C.
Explanation
Isotherms are lines on a map connecting points of equal temperature. Their pattern is primarily controlled by latitude and the differential heating of land and water. The distribution of isotherms differs significantly between the Northern and Southern Hemispheres due to the varying proportions of landmass and ocean.
Detailed Analysis
In January, it is summer in the Southern Hemisphere. The behavior of isotherms in this region is characterized by the following:
- Ocean Dominance: The Southern Hemisphere is predominantly covered by oceans. Water heats and cools more slowly and uniformly than land.
- Parallel Alignment: Due to the absence of large landmasses in the middle and higher latitudes, the temperature gradient is regular. Consequently, isotherms run almost parallel to the latitudes, unlike the irregular patterns seen in the Northern Hemisphere.
- Specific Isotherms: According to standard climatological data:
- The 20° C isotherm runs parallel to the 35° S latitude.
- The 10° C isotherm runs parallel to the 45° S latitude.
- The 0° C isotherm runs parallel to the 60° S latitude.
Therefore, the isotherm corresponding to 35° S latitude in January is 20° C.
Key Takeaway: In the Southern Hemisphere, isotherms are regular and parallel to latitudes due to the vast expanse of oceans, which minimizes the temperature contrast that typically bends isotherms over landmasses.