3-D Line Graph of the Weather Data

In this activity you will construct a 3-D line graph using climatological data from the National Weather Service. A 3-D line graph allows you to compare trends in data patterns involving three variables (one dependent and two independent). Both continuous and discrete data will be graphed in this 3-D line graph. Discrete data is organized into groups, while continuous data is organized into ordered points.

The mean monthly air temperature (measured in °F) for a twelve month period was taken for the cities of St. Louis, Missouri and Houston, Texas. These two cities were used to see if there was a difference in the temperature of two cities in different regions. After graphing the data, you will be able to compare the data for different months to find any trends that may exist.

Using Excel, create a 3-D line graph and answer the questions at the end of this page. The data appears in two formats: Excel Data format and Text format.

Which city has a more rapid increase in air temperature? In which month are the air temperatures closest to each other? Do both cities exhibit a similar trend in air temperature? Which variables are discrete and why? Which data is continuous and why?

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