The rate at which a hot object loses heat to its surroundings is determined by the temperature difference between the object and its surroundings. Heat transfer occurs from a higher temperature region to a lower temperature region, so the larger the temperature difference, the faster the heat transfer.

Option 1 states that the rate of heat loss depends on the temperature of the object. While the temperature of the object does play a role in determining the amount of heat transferred, it is the temperature difference between the object and its surroundings that primarily governs the rate of heat loss.

Option 2 suggests that the rate of heat loss depends on the temperature of the surroundings. However, the temperature of the surroundings on its own does not determine the rate of heat transfer. It is the difference between the object`s temperature and the surroundings` temperature that is critical.

Option 4 proposes that the rate of heat loss depends on the average temperature of the object and its surroundings. This is not accurate since the average temperature does not factor into the rate calculation. It is solely the temperature difference that matters.

In conclusion, option 3 is correct because the rate of heat loss depends on the temperature difference between the hot object and its surroundings.