Question

In the scientific method, a hypothesis is a(n) _______ a. observation b. measurement c. test d. proposed explanation

Short answer

The correct answer is d. 'Proposed explanation'.

Step-by-step solution

Understand the Term in Context

The term 'Hypothesis' should be examined in the context of the scientific method. A hypothesis is a proposed explanation based on limited evidence, which serves as a starting point for further investigation and is designed to be tested.

Compare Options with Definition

Here the proposed definitions of 'Hypothesis' are compared to the actual meaning. 'Observations' and 'measurements' are parts of the scientific method process, but they are not hypotheses. 'Tests' are the methods to validate or invalidate hypotheses, but they are not the hypothesis themselves.

Choose the Correct Option

From the comparisons made in step 2, it is clear that the definition in option d, 'proposed explanation', accurately describes what a hypothesis is within the scope of the scientific method.

Key concepts

Scientific Method

The scientific method is a systematic approach used by scientists to explore and understand phenomena. It ensures that findings are grounded in evidence and empirical data. The process typically involves several key steps:

• Observation: The first step, where phenomena and patterns are observed in the natural world.
• Question: Formulating questions about what has been observed.
• Hypothesis: Proposing a potential explanation that addresses the questions posed.
• Experiment: Designing and conducting tests to validate or challenge the hypothesis.
• Analysis: Examining the data collected during the experiments.
• Conclusion: Drawing conclusions based on the data analysis.

Each step is crucial as it builds upon the previous one, making the scientific method a cyclical and iterative process. By using this method, researchers ensure their results are repeatable and reliable, fostering a deeper understanding of how the world functions.

Proposed Explanation

A proposed explanation, commonly known as a hypothesis, is a fundamental component of the scientific method. It acts as a starting point that guides the direction of scientific inquiry. When scientists craft a hypothesis, they are essentially proposing a possible answer to a specific question. This explanation must be testable and falsifiable. This means that there must be a way to verify it through experimental data, and it must be possible to prove it wrong if it does not hold up under scrutiny.

Hypotheses are generally formed based on observations and prior knowledge. They are not just guesses, but informed assumptions made with the intent of extending scientific understanding. Once formulated, the hypothesis serves as a guide for designing experiments and collecting data. Successful hypotheses can eventually lead to theories if they consistently withstand extensive testing and validation.

Testing Hypotheses

Testing hypotheses is a critical step in the scientific method that involves conducting experiments or other forms of data collection to evaluate the validity of the proposed explanation. This stage is essential because it allows researchers to determine whether their hypothesis is supported by empirical evidence. The process of testing often includes:

• Designing experiments with controlled variables, ensuring that the testing conditions are as unbiased as possible.
• Collecting data systematically to minimize errors and bias.
• Analyzing the results to see if they align with the predictions made by the hypothesis.

Once testing is complete, scientists will consider whether the results support or refute the hypothesis. If the data does not support the hypothesis, it may be rejected or revised. However, if results consistently back up the hypothesis, it may be further scrutinized and possibly contribute to broader scientific theories. This step is what makes science dynamic and self-correcting, as hypotheses can be continuously tested and re-evaluated.