What is the effect of a temperature increase from 35 to 50°F on the density altitude if the pressure altitude remains at 3,000 feet MSL?

To understand the effect of temperature on density altitude, it's important to recognize how temperature inversely correlates with air density. When the temperature increases, the air becomes less dense, which consequently raises the density altitude.

In this scenario, the temperature increase is from 35°F to 50°F while maintaining a constant pressure altitude of 3,000 feet. A temperature increase of this magnitude affects the air density significantly. Generally, for every 1°F increase in temperature above the standard, the density altitude increases by approximately 120 to 150 feet in the context of aviation.

Given that the temperature rose by 15°F (from 35°F to 50°F), it can be estimated that this could result in a density altitude increase of around 1,200 to 1,800 feet. The best fit among the provided choices is a 1,000 foot increase, reflecting a conservative estimate based on the temperature rise.

Thus, the answer indicates that as the temperature increases, despite the pressure altitude remaining constant at 3,000 feet, the density altitude experiences an increase due to the reduction in air density caused by the higher temperature. This knowledge is crucial for pilots, as it impacts aircraft performance, including takeoff distance, climb rate