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Many students who study using our platform have reported that a large number of the practice questions here are very similar to those that appear in real exams. View Courses
Many students who study using our platform have reported that a large number of the practice questions here are very similar to those that appear in real exams. View Courses
A scientist observes that a certain metal forms a reddish-brown coating when left outside. To investigate, they propose that the coating forms due to reaction with air and moisture. Which step of the scientific method does this proposal represent?
Correct Answer: B. Formulation of a testable and logical hypothesis. When the scientist proposes that the reddish-brown coating forms because the metal reacts with air and moisture, they are moving beyond simple observation and are now making a logical and testable statement — a hypothesis. In the scientific method, a hypothesis is an educated prediction about a cause-and-effect relationship that can be tested through experimentation or further observation. The purpose of the hypothesis is to provide direction for testing, such as designing experiments that expose the metal to various levels of air and moisture to determine whether the same coating forms. This step connects observation to experimentation by establishing a clear question and a possible answer.
Why the Other Options Are Incorrect:
A. Careful data interpretation and result comparison
This stage happens after experiments have been conducted. It involves analyzing the data collected, identifying patterns or relationships, and comparing results with the original hypothesis to see if it was supported or refuted. In this question, the scientist has not yet reached that stage because no data have been collected or analyzed.
C. Systematic observation of the natural phenomenon
Observation is the first step in the scientific method, where the scientist notices a specific occurrence — in this case, the reddish-brown coating forming on the metal. However, proposing that the coating results from air and moisture interaction goes beyond observation; it interprets what might be happening, which is part of hypothesis formulation.
D. Controlled experimentation and data measurement
Experimentation follows hypothesis formation. It involves testing the hypothesis under controlled conditions to determine its validity. The scientist in this scenario has not yet performed any tests but only proposed an explanation to be tested later.
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