Question

Which of the following represents the application of the "scientific method"? a. comparing one experimental subject to one control subject b. believing an explanation that is too complex to be tested c. using controlled experiments to test falsifiable hypotheses d. developing one testable hypothesis to explain a natural phenomenon e. observing a once-in-a-lifetime event under natural conditions

Short answer

Option c, using controlled experiments to test falsifiable hypotheses, represents the application of the scientific method.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding the Scientific Method

The scientific method is a systematic process used for scientific investigation. It involves making observations, forming a hypothesis, conducting experiments to test the hypothesis, analyzing the data, and drawing conclusions. It often includes control groups and requires that hypotheses be falsifiable, meaning there must be a possibility to prove them wrong.

Evaluating the Options

Look at each option and evaluate whether it fits into the process of the scientific method. Option a involves comparing subjects but doesn't include the other steps of the scientific method. Option b involves belief, which is not testable or falsifiable. Option c mentions controlled experiments and falsifiability, fitting the scientific method. Option d involves forming a hypothesis but lacks the other steps like testing and analyzing. Option e suggests passive observation, not an active testing process.

Identifying the Correct Option

Since the scientific method requires that hypotheses be testable and falsifiable, and also involves controlled experiments, the option that best represents the application of the scientific method is option c.

Key concepts

Controlled Experiments

To understand controlled experiments, let's picture a scenario where scientists are investigating whether a new fertilizer improves plant growth compared to the standard one. They would set up two groups of plants: one group receiving the new fertilizer (experimental group) and the other receiving the standard fertilizer (control group). All other growing conditions like light, water, and soil type would be kept constant.

The presence of a control group allows researchers to isolate the effects of the new fertilizer from other variables. This setup is fundamental because it can clearly demonstrate cause and effect—if the plants with the new fertilizer grow significantly better, then the researchers have strong evidence that the fertilizer is effective. Importally, other factors are controlled, meaning they are kept the same across both groups, to avoid them influencing the outcome.

Why Are Controlled Experiments Important?

They are the cornerstone of the scientific method, allowing for testable, repeatable, and falsifiable experimentation. Without maintaining control groups, the reliability of an experiment's conclusion decreases significantly, leading to potentially flawed interpretations.

Falsifiable Hypotheses

A falsifiable hypothesis is one that can be proven false through experimentation or observation. It is a critical element of the scientific method because it ensures that a hypothesis is testable. Think of stating, 'All swans are white.' This can be falsified by finding a single swan that is not white, which would prove the hypothesis incorrect.

The hallmark of a good scientific hypothesis is not that it’s correct but that it can be proven wrong if it is indeed false. For example, the hypothesis 'Plant growth is affected by light exposure' is falsifiable because one can conduct an experiment where plants are exposed to different amounts of light, and then measure their growth to determine if light exposure has an effect.

Non-falsifiable Hypotheses

On the flip side, a statement like 'Good energy promotes plant growth' is too vague and not easily testable. What exactly is 'good energy' and how do you measure its effect on growth? For a hypothesis to be scientific, it must be framed in a way that exposes it to the possibility of being shown false.

Scientific Investigation Process

The scientific investigation process is a systematic method that researchers use to explore phenomena, acquire new knowledge, or correct and integrate previous knowledge. It starts with an observation that leads to a question. From there, scientists form a hypothesis—or a potential explanation that is testable and falsifiable. The next step is to conduct experiments to test this hypothesis, collect and analyze data, and draw conclusions. These results can either support or refute the hypothesis.

If results are consistent with the hypothesis, they can be reported and potentially published for peer review—a process wherein other scientists evaluate and attempt to replicate the findings. If results contradict the hypothesis, the investigation doesn't end; it's an opportunity to review the hypothesis or the experimental design, which can lead to new hypotheses and further research.

Iterative Nature

The process is iterative and cyclical. Any conclusion drawn is not necessarily final, as subsequent evidence may provide new insights or lead to the refinement of theories. This continuous loop of hypothesis testing, experimentation, and analysis is what advances scientific knowledge and understanding.