Question

Conducting research without a preconceived hypothesis is called a discovery-based science. b. the scientific method. c. hypothesis testing. d. a control experiment. e. none of the above.

Short answer

The correct answer is a. discovery-based science

Step-by-step solution

Understand the question

The question is asking to identify the type of scientific research conducted when there is no preconceived hypothesis. Five choices have been given, namely: discovery-based science, the scientific method, hypothesis testing, a control experiment, and none of the above.

Evaluate Each Option

Starting from the first option, evaluate each one based on understanding of the term. Discovery-based science is a type of scientific research where a scientist explores without a pre-set hypothesis. It often entails detailed observation of a system or phenomena, without any prejudgment. The scientific method is a method of procedure that has characterized natural science since the 17th century, consisting in systematic observation, measurement, and experiment, and the formulation, testing, and modification of hypotheses. Hypothesis testing is a procedure in the scientific method where a hypothesis is tested. A control experiment is an experiment in which an experimental group (A) and a control group (B) are set up. Group A is manipulated according to a particular variable, and Group B serves as a control that lacks that variable for comparison. Lastly, none of the above means none of the first four choices is correct.

Identify the Correct Answer

From our evaluation in step 2, discovery-based science is the correct answer as it is an exploratory type of research without a preconceived hypothesis unlike the others which require one.

Key concepts

Scientific Method

The scientific method is a systematic way of exploring and understanding the natural world. It's a process used widely in experiments and discoveries across different fields of science. This method ensures that scientific inquiries lead to reliable and repeatable results. Here's how it works:

• Start with observations: Notice patterns or phenomena that spark curiosity.
• Ask questions: Turn observations into questions that need answers.
• Formulate a hypothesis: Develop a testable statement or prediction based on your questions.
• Conduct experiments: Design and perform tests to validate or refute your hypothesis.
• Analyze results: Review the data obtained from experiments to support or reject the hypothesis.
• Draw conclusions: Determine whether the hypothesis is supported or needs modification.

The scientific method is iterative. Scientists constantly refine hypotheses and experiments to better understand the phenomena they study. By following this meticulous path, science advances in a structured and reliable manner.

Hypothesis Testing

Hypothesis testing is a crucial part of the scientific method. It involves checking whether a given statement (hypothesis) about a phenomena can be substantiated with evidence. To test a hypothesis, the process typically includes these steps:

• Identify variables: Determine which factors affect the system being studied.
• Craft a clear hypothesis: Express a possible explanation or belief about the effect of one or more variables.
• Design experiments: Construct experiments that will challenge the hypothesis under various conditions.
• Collect and analyze data: Gather results from experimentation to evaluate the hypothesis.
• Make a decision: Decide if the data supports or contradicts the hypothesis.

Hypotheses can be either accepted or rejected based on the experimental data. Importantly, a hypothesis can never be "proven"—it's only tentative until further data supports it. If the hypothesis is not supported, it can be revised or completely replaced with a new one. This keeps scientific inquiry flexible and responsive to new information.

Control Experiment

A control experiment is a critical way to ensure that scientific experiments are unbiased and reliable. It involves setting up two groups: the experimental group and the control group. Here's how it typically works:

• Simplify variables: Keep all conditions identical for both groups except for the variable being tested.
• Experiment group: This group receives the experimental treatment or change.
• Control group: This group does not receive the experimental change and acts as a baseline for comparison.
• Analyze differences: Any differences between these groups can reveal the effect of the experimental variable.

Control experiments are pivotal in separating the effects of the variable of interest from other factors. They allow researchers to see clearly what changes are occurring due to the specific element being tested. This provides stronger evidence for or against a hypothesis, improving scientific accuracy and insights.