[Campbell Biology P.35] A scientist observes that a particular type of plant grows taller i... | Practice Question

A scientist observes that a particular type of plant grows taller in soil enriched with a new fertilizer compared to a control group. According to Concept 1.3, which of the following steps is the most crucial for the scientist to take next to confirm this observation as a valid scientific finding?

  • A: Publish the findings immediately to share with the scientific community.
  • B: Formulate a testable hypothesis about the fertilizer's effect and design a controlled experiment with appropriate variables.
  • C: Repeat the observation many times under uncontrolled conditions to see if the trend persists.
  • D: Discard the findings if another plant species does not show the same growth when treated with the fertilizer.
  • E: Seek opinions from other scientists about whether their anecdotal experiences support the observation.

Explanation

Concept 1.3, 'In studying nature, scientists form and test hypotheses', outlines the scientific process. After an initial observation, the crucial next step is to formulate a testable hypothesis and then design a controlled experiment with variables and controls to systematically test that hypothesis. This allows for confirmation of the observation as a valid scientific finding.